Cyprus Halts Asylum Claims Amid Surge in Syrian Arrivals
In a significant policy shift, Cyprus has put a temporary halt on the processing of asylum applications from individuals of Syrian origin. The announcement was made by President Nikos Christodoulides on the social media platform Twitter. This decision comes in response to the “recent mass arrival of Syrian political asylum seekers by sea,” as the island nation grapples with a substantial influx of migrants.
The pause also reflects considerations regarding “pending developments on the Syrian status reassessment issue.” The timing of this announcement coincides with the arrival of 141 irregular migrants, predominantly of Syrian origin, who reached Cyprus aboard two boats. The island has seen over 800 irregular migrants arrive in the early days of April, with consistent numbers throughout the spring season.
However, not all journeys to Cyprus have concluded safely. Tragically, numerous bodies have been discovered along the coastline this year, with some unable to be identified. Indications from clothing suggest that many may be of Syrian descent.
Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou previously expressed concern over the proportion of asylum seekers in Cyprus, which may account for up to five percent of the population. In a proactive stance, President Christodoulides has sought international cooperation to address the migration challenges, meeting with European leaders and visiting Lebanon to discuss collaborative efforts against trafficking networks.
Furthermore, Cyprus is advocating for parts of Syria to be declared safe zones, a move that would potentially reduce asylum claims. Ioannou’s recent European tour aimed to rally support for this initiative, with discussions underway to establish a fact-finding mission to Syria in partnership with the Czech Republic. Denmark and Greece have also shown interest in exploring the conditions in Syria for potential returns under strict criteria.
Despite these efforts, there is not a consensus among EU member states regarding Cyprus’ strategy. While Austria has expressed support for the possibility of deportations to safe areas in Syria, Sweden has clarified that it has not taken a position on the proposal, citing a “misunderstanding” regarding its stance.
Cyprus continues to seek substantive support from its EU counterparts as it faces unprecedented pressures from the ongoing migrant arrivals, with the National Security Council convening and diplomatic engagements persisting to find a sustainable resolution to this complex issue.
