UN expert to assess impacts of cut-backs on people's rights in Greece

A UN expert will visit Greece next week to assess impact of financial crisis and structural adjustment for the enjoyment of human rights in the country, the UN human rights agency OHCHR said on Thursday.

UN Independent Expert on foreign debt Juan Pablo Bohoslavsky will undertake his first official visit to Greece from Nov. 30 to Dec. 8, and his final findings and key recommendations will be presented in a comprehensive report to the UN Human Rights Council in March 2016.

"Greece has been required to undertake severe cut-backs in public spending and implement a list of economic and social reforms in order to receive further credit," he said, adding that he will assess what impacts these cut-backs and reforms have had on the right to health care, housing, education, and social security.

According to the expert, one issue of particular concern is the growth of poverty and inequality within the country as a consequence of the financial and economic crisis.

In that regard, the expert will pay special attention to the policies and strategies adopted by government and its international lenders to fight these trends under the third bail-out program.

Bohoslavsky is expected to meet with senior Government officials, including representatives of various ministries, members of Parliament, and other public institutions in Greece.

He will also hold meetings with representatives of international organizations, national human rights bodies, civil society, academics, and persons affected by the economic crisis. Endit