Debate Heats Up Over Asylum Application Deadlines
In a move that has sparked considerable debate, the far-right Elam party has introduced a draft proposal that could significantly shorten the time refugees have to file asylum applications or appeals in court. The proposal, presented to the house legal committee, suggests that asylum applicants be given only 15 days to appeal decisions by the Asylum Service and a mere seven days to file appeals for asylum to court.
Elam MP Sotiris Ioannou argues that the current system is being exploited by some, leading to unfavorable conditions within the country. He insists that these changes are necessary to create more effective mechanisms for managing migration flows. On the other side of the aisle, Diko MP Panicos Leonidou contends that the proposed changes would benefit migrants by expediting the processing of their applications.
However, opposition Akel MP Andreas Pasiourtides recalls a similar discussion from 2020 regarding time limit reductions for asylum applications. He highlights that the existing time limits were deemed reasonable by both the Legal Service and the justice ministry and were considered to safeguard the constitutional rights of applicants. Pasiourtides emphasizes that migration issues require a holistic approach rather than simply reducing access to justice.
The justice ministry’s spokeswoman, Phaedra Gregoriou, clarified that the ministry would not object to the amendment, provided it aligns with European law and does not present practical issues for the services involved. Meanwhile, a representative from the Legal Service stated that while time limits are a national matter, any legislative proposal must adhere to EU directives and ensure asylum seekers’ access to courts is not hindered.
Yiannis Karagiorgis, representing the Asylum Service of the interior ministry, called for a comprehensive review of the issue, considering whether all services involved could cope with reduced deadlines, especially concerning deportations.
A UNHCR representative raised concerns about the actual effectiveness of access to courts for asylum seekers. They pointed out the financial burden of appealing decisions, which is often beyond the means of refugees who receive minimal benefits and may not have funds available immediately upon entry.
Despite these concerns, Ioannou stated that most government services are in favor of reducing time limits, with Akel being the primary voice of opposition. This proposal follows another far-right Elam initiative that was adopted by the government when President Nikos Christodoulides announced a freeze on all Syrian migrant applications earlier in the week—a decision for which Elam claimed credit.
