Cyprus has implemented a strategy to manage the asylum influx by reducing new arrivals, expediting asylum procedures, improving reception conditions, and increasing returns of non-qualifying individuals. Efforts to counter misinformation and trafficking networks have led to a decrease in arrivals and applications, providing hope for the small island nation in the face of unprecedented challenges.
What measures has Cyprus taken to manage the asylum seeker influx?
Cyprus has implemented a strategy to manage the asylum influx which includes:
- Reducing new arrivals
- Speeding up asylum application procedures
- Improving hospitality infrastructure and reception conditions
- Increasing returns of non-qualifying individuals
Additionally, efforts to counter misinformation and combat trafficking networks have led to a decrease in arrivals and applications.
The Strain on a Small Island
Cyprus, the third most populous and third largest island in the Mediterranean, is facing an unprecedented surge in asylum applications. In the year 2023, the country received one asylum request for every 78 residents, an astonishing figure that positions Cyprus as the European nation with the highest number of applications per capita. This influx creates a significant challenge for the small island nation.
The European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) has reported an 18 percent increase in applications across the EU, reaching a total of 1.14 million last year. These numbers are reminiscent of the 2015-16 migrant crisis, highlighting the ongoing pressures European countries face in managing new waves of migration.
Cyprus’ Response to Asylum Challenges
Cyprus has witnessed a dramatic rise in the number of people staying at the Pournara reception center in Kokkinotrimithia, with figures exceeding 3,000. The backlog of pending asylum applications has also been a concern, surpassing 30,000 cases. In response, the Cypriot government under Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou, has formulated a four-pronged strategy. The plan aims to address immediate challenges and create a sustainable framework for managing immigration more effectively.
The strategy includes measures to reduce new arrivals, expedite asylum application procedures, enhance hospitality infrastructure and reception conditions, and increase the number of returns of those who do not qualify for asylum. These measures are designed to manage not only the volume of arrivals but also to uphold the integrity of the asylum process and ensure that those truly in need of protection receive it.
Irregular Immigration and Trafficking Networks
A critical concern for Cyprus has been the influx of irregular immigrants, predominantly from Sub-Saharan African countries. Many arrive through Turkey into the territories occupied by Turkish forces, and then cross into the government-controlled areas to seek asylum. A common route involves obtaining ‘student visas’ as a means to enter the occupied territories, after which individuals move to the free areas to apply for asylum.
The Cypriot government accuses traffickers of exploiting vulnerable people by painting Cyprus as an ‘economic paradise’, promising access to substantial benefits and opportunities in the labor market while their asylum applications are being processed. In an effort to counter this narrative, the government has launched online information campaigns in countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, to provide accurate information about living conditions in Cyprus.
Mitigating Measures and Results
In addition to information campaigns, the Cypriot government has taken tangible steps to reduce the island’s appeal to economic migrants and traffickers. They have canceled benefits for rejected asylum seekers and prolonged the waiting period for work rights post-asylum application. There’s also been a concerted effort to crack down on illegal employment in industrial sectors, in coordination with the labor ministry.
These efforts extend to combating organized trafficking networks, with Cyprus prioritizing collaboration with neighboring countries to dismantle these operations, including setting up a dedicated police unit. According to Cyprus’ interior ministry, these measures have yielded results, with a 37 percent decrease in arrivals and a 50 percent drop in asylum applications. These statistics offer a glimpse of hope in what has been a challenging situation for the country.
How has Cyprus responded to the asylum seeker influx?
Cyprus has implemented a strategy to manage the asylum influx by reducing new arrivals, expediting asylum procedures, improving reception conditions, and increasing returns of non-qualifying individuals. Efforts to counter misinformation and trafficking networks have also contributed to a decrease in arrivals and applications.
What challenges does Cyprus face as a small island nation?
Cyprus is facing an unprecedented surge in asylum applications, with one asylum request for every 78 residents in 2023. This influx presents significant challenges for the small island nation, positioning Cyprus as the European nation with the highest number of applications per capita.
What measures has Cyprus taken to address the backlog of asylum applications?
Cyprus has formulated a four-pronged strategy to address the backlog of pending asylum applications, which includes reducing new arrivals, expediting asylum procedures, improving hospitality infrastructure and reception conditions, and increasing returns of non-qualifying individuals. These measures aim to manage the volume of arrivals and uphold the integrity of the asylum process.
How is Cyprus tackling irregular immigration and trafficking networks?
Cyprus has been addressing the influx of irregular immigrants, particularly from Sub-Saharan African countries, by cracking down on trafficking networks that exploit vulnerable individuals. Through information campaigns and concrete measures such as canceling benefits for rejected asylum seekers, prolonging the waiting period for work rights, and combating illegal employment, Cyprus has seen a decrease in arrivals and asylum applications.
