PAKOE: “Halikounas under scrutiny” – Calls for inspections and strict enforcement of environmental protection measures

The Panhellenic Centre for Ecological Research (PAKOE) has expressed strong concern over recent developments concerning Halikounas Beach, claiming that although the area was included this year among Greece's "Untouched Beaches" because of its exceptional ecological value, initiatives are now underway seeking to exempt it from the special protection regime. The organisation is calling for extensive inspections of activities in the area and full transparency regarding any planned interventions.

In its statement, PAKOE describes Halikounas Beach and the Korission Lagoon as one of Corfu's most important ecosystems. The area is part of the Natura 2000 network and plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity, migratory birds, dune vegetation, and the nesting grounds of the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta).

The organisation notes that the beach was included among Greece's 251 "Untouched Beaches" under a joint ministerial decision issued in May 2026, arguing that the new designation provides an additional layer of protection against intensive tourism development.

PAKOE also voices its opposition to a resolution adopted by the Ionian Islands Regional Council, which called for Halikounas to be exempted from the new protection regime. According to the organisation, the area's inclusion in the Natura 2000 network does not eliminate the need for additional conservation measures to safeguard the ecosystem.

The statement also refers to media reports concerning concessions for the simple use of the seashore that were allegedly granted shortly after the area was designated as an "Untouched Beach." PAKOE is calling for an investigation into whether these administrative decisions are compatible with the new legal framework.

Citing complaints from local residents and information it has gathered, PAKOE says the area is facing a number of pressures, including vehicles driving over the sand dunes, inadequate waste and sewage management, the operation of power generators on the beach, unauthorised interventions, and risks to the nesting sites of the Caretta caretta. It clarifies, however, that these are allegations requiring on-site inspections by the competent authorities.

The organisation is calling for comprehensive environmental inspections in the Halikounas–Korission Lagoon area, a review of all concessions and permits, full enforcement of the "Untouched Beaches" protection regime, effective protection of the sand dunes and the Caretta caretta nesting areas, and the publication of any development or investment plans concerning the area.

PAKOE concludes by stating that Halikounas is one of Corfu's most valuable natural assets and argues that its protection must not be compromised in pursuit of short-term economic interests. The organisation says it will continue to monitor the situation and pursue any legal action it considers necessary.