Record Drop in Migrant Arrivals in Cyprus

The number of illegal immigrants arriving in the Republic of Cyprus has dropped to a record low, while deportation figures have reached unprecedented levels.

According to Philenews, the sharp decline in migrant arrivals came after a decision by the Minister of Interior, Constantinos Ioannou, to suspend the processing of asylum applications.

Additionally, the Foreigners and Immigration Service, in cooperation with the Port and Marine Police, has blocked two major entry routes for illegal immigrants.

The report states that 10,994 illegal immigrants arrived in Cyprus in 2023, most of them from Syria. So far this year, up until September 18, 5,052 illegal immigrants have arrived on the island. In January, 778 people arrived; in February, 1,026; in March, 1,177; in April, 1,123; in May, 219; in June, 155; in July, 174; in August, 216; and in September, 184. By the same date last year, 8,222 people had arrived.

It's important to note that earlier this year, the situation spiraled out of control, with illegal migrants arriving by sea almost daily. In April and early May, boats arrived every day. The President of the Republic of Cyprus was forced to seek assistance from the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen. Additionally, he made two trips to Beirut, where he promised EU financial assistance to Lebanon.

It was also reported that 7,456 people were deported or voluntarily returned to their home countries this year.

Of these, 1,800 were deported, while 5,650 left voluntarily, taking advantage of a financial incentive offered for voluntary return.

By this time last year, 6,900 illegal immigrants had left the island. In total, 9,711 people returned to their home countries in 2023.

The returns are being carried out in cooperation with FRONTEX and other countries through joint flights.