Greek Journalist Takes Spyware Case to European Human Rights Court

Greek journalist Thanasis Koukakis has filed a complaint with the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) against Greece, alleging that authorities failed to conduct an impartial investigation into his surveillance by the National Intelligence Service (EYP) and the Predator spyware. His legal team argues that the investigation was compromised due to the involvement of former Supreme Court Prosecutor Konstantinos Tzavellas, who had previously authorized the surveillance against Koukakis. The complaint raises issues regarding the right to a fair trial, privacy, and freedom of expression under the European Convention on Human Rights. Koukakis's phone was reportedly infected with Predator spyware for at least two months in 2021, and he was informed of this in 2022. The case has drawn significant attention due to its implications for press freedom and the accountability of state surveillance practices. The ECHR application follows a ruling by an Athens court that convicted four individuals related to the surveillance and ordered further investigations. However, Tzavellas refused to reopen the case, raising concerns about judicial impartiality. The situation remains open at both judicial and political levels.

Key Points: • Thanasis Koukakis alleges failure of Greek authorities to investigate his surveillance. • The case raises significant issues regarding press freedom and judicial impartiality. • Former prosecutor Konstantinos Tzavellas is accused of a conflict of interest in the investigation.