Greece has announced a temporary suspension of asylum applications for individuals arriving via North Africa, following a significant increase in migrant arrivals. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis explained in parliament that this suspension will last for three months and is a response to the approximately 2,000 migrants and refugees arriving in Crete over the weekend alone. This spike has triggered frustration among local authorities and those in the tourism sector.
During his address, Mitsotakis stated, “With legislation that will be submitted to the parliament tomorrow, Greece will suspend the examination of asylum applications, initially for three months, for those arriving in Greece from North Africa by sea.” He emphasized that migrants entering the country illegally will be subject to arrest and detention.
The proposed legislation is set to be voted on soon, and the Greek government is ensuring that the European Union is kept informed about the situation. Notably, Mitsotakis highlighted that Greek naval and coastguard forces would collaborate with Libyan authorities to prevent migrant boats from departing or to intercept them before they reach Greek waters.
The number of sea arrivals from northeastern Libya aiming for Greece’s islands has already exceeded 7,300 this year, significantly surpassing the total of around 5,000 for the entire year of 2024. This influx has placed tremendous pressure on Crete and Gavdos, which are struggling to accommodate the influx as they lack formal reception centers.
The Greek Council for Refugees has condemned the government’s decision, labeling it “illegal” and asserting that it undermines fundamental rights. They argue that the administration is exploiting the rising numbers of migrants as a pretext for the suspension.
In light of the challenges faced, Greece’s coastguard rescued about 520 individuals off Gavdos earlier this week and is in the process of taking them to the mainland for further assistance. The situation echoes the broader context of the migration crisis in the region, which saw over a million people seeking refuge during the 2015-2016 period.
While the measures may be seen as necessary for immediate management of a pressing crisis, it’s essential for Greece to balance national security concerns with the adherence to international legal standards regarding asylum and refugee rights.