during the 10 years since the enactment of the law, as the relevant Joint Ministerial Decision is still pending. Among the alternatives to detention, reporting regularly to a police station appears to be a much less harsh and therefore more suitable alternative that does not violate people’s rights. Indeed, this practice is commonly used for those accused of a criminal offence while they are awaiting trial. Lack of legal status in a country is much less of a threat to public order than individuals who are arrested for committing criminal acts; yet the administrative courts, when considering appeals against a detention decision for Greek suspects of crimes, have prioritized alternatives such as reporting to a police station regularly (once a week or twice a month). 84 An obligation to provide residence and contact information is another proportionate alternative measure. However, the Greek authorities and the administrative courts often impose or approve detention decisions by invoking the risk of absconding (on grounds of the applicant’s lack of a permanent residence). Yet they fail to take into account the unique situation of asylum seekers in that they usually cannot secure a housing contract. It is a cruel paradox that a permanent address is often a requirement, yet the Ministry of Asylum and Migration demands that asylum seekers stay in facilities provided by the Ministry, threatening to cut off financial support if this condition is not adhered to. 85 The costs of administrative detention are already very high, as detention centres are expensive to build, maintain and operate. 86 These funds could be invested in other much needed areas such as integration – a longer-term and more humane solution. 23