Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has identified the initial instances of child malnutrition within the migrant camp on Greece's Samos island. Six children, aged between six months and six years and originating from Syria and Afghanistan, have been diagnosed with acute malnutrition requiring immediate medical intervention.

While MSF has not directly attributed the malnutrition to the camp's environment, they have highlighted that inadequate food provisions and medical services significantly jeopardize the health of its inhabitants. Christina Psarra, MSF Greece’s Director General, emphasized that approximately 25% of the camp's population are children and called for urgent measures to address this systemic neglect.

The Samos facility, inaugurated in 2021 to replace the overcrowded Vathy camp, has faced criticism from rights organizations for its harsh living conditions. Amnesty International has previously labeled the conditions as "inhumane and degrading," citing issues like water shortages and insufficient basic services during periods of overcrowding. In December 2024, a UN human rights expert accused Greece of failing to identify victims of sex trafficking within the camp.

MSF is urging Greek and EU authorities to ensure adequate pediatric care and nutritional support in Samos and to reinstate financial assistance for asylum seekers that was suspended in June. The Greek migration ministry has indicated plans to release a statement addressing these concerns.