Greece Implements Temporary Suspension on Asylum Applications Amid Migrant Surge

In light of a significant increase in migrant influx from North Africa, Greece has temporarily suspended asylum applications for three months. This controversial move has sparked debates on migration policy, humanitarian treatment of migrants, and collaboration with Libyan authorities amid worsening conditions.

Greece has initiated a three-month suspension of asylum applications for migrants arriving from North Africa, driven by a substantial rise in arrivals by sea. Conservative Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis articulated this decision as a strong warning to human traffickers and potential migrants, emphasizing that reaching Greece will be increasingly difficult. "This emergency situation requires emergency response measures," said Mitsotakis, drawing parallels to Greece’s earlier response in 2020 when it curtailed crossings at its land border with Turkey.

Alongside this suspension, the government will detain and arrest individuals arriving by boat. Migration Minister Thanos Plevris reinforced this message, stating clearly on social media: "stay where you are, we do not accept you." The need for this response follows alarming reports, with Crete witnessing an influx of over 2,000 migrants recently and a staggering total of more than 9,000 since early 2025—a 350% increase compared to last year.

The surge has overwhelmed local infrastructure, with authorities expressing that the number of arrivals is "suffocating" their resources. Many migrants, including families with young children, are currently being housed in unsuitable conditions, such as crowded market halls. This situation is compounded by logistical challenges posed by the tourist season, which limits transportation options for the redistribution of migrants across the country.

In a concurrent international effort, Greek, Italian, and Maltese officials, along with the EU's migration commissioner, attempted to engage with Libyan authorities to address the root causes of migration. However, their efforts were thwarted when Libyan officials blocked their entry, accusing them of violating national sovereignty. Mitsotakis remains firm on collaborating with the Libyan government to curb boat departures, despite NGOs raising concerns regarding such alliances. Critics highlight the inhumane treatment of those intercepted by the Libyan coastguard, who face dire conditions in detention camps, sparking widespread condemnation from human rights organizations like Amnesty International.

As Greece navigates this complicated issue, the implications of its policy decisions will likely resonate across Europe and influence ongoing debates surrounding migration management, humanitarian responsibilities, and the effectiveness of external partnerships.