More asylum seekers relocated to France

On July 12, 2023, another group of asylum seekers, totaling 51 individuals, was voluntarily relocated from the Republic of Cyprus to France. The relocation was carried out through the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Interior, French authorities, and with support from the European Union Asylum Agency (EUAA) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

This ongoing program aims to assist frontline Member States in addressing the challenges posed by increased migration. Further transfers are scheduled to occur in the near future, with the next flight expected on July 19 to Norway, accommodating approximately 40 individuals.

Positive Trend: Departures Outpace Arrivals

Significantly, Cyprus has recently achieved a positive balance in terms of migrant departures versus arrivals, marking a notable shift in the migration landscape. Thanks to coordinated actions and measures implemented, the total number of migrants leaving Cyprus has exceeded the number of arrivals for the first time in years.

During the last quarter, from April to June 2023, while 2,381 asylum applications were submitted, a total of 2,714 migrants left Cyprus voluntarily through relocation programs to other Member States, voluntary returns, or deportation to their countries of origin.

In June alone, 735 asylum applications were submitted, while 926 third-country nationals departed Cyprus through voluntary relocation programs, voluntary returns, or deportation.

[Information sourced from official government announcement]