16 April 2025 - Migration management is not achieved with populism, but with a plan

The Audit Office report published on 8 April 2025 to assess the management of migration in the Republic of Cyprus shows that the procedures for examining asylum applications are significantly delayed, with an average duration of examination exceeding 20 months, placing an even greater burden on the state budget. Realistic solutions are urgently needed, such as accelerating procedures, improving the interoperability of information systems and reducing bureaucracy.

Apr 16, 2025

It is important to point out that a large number of migrants continue to reside irregularly in Cyprus after the expiry of their residence permit, due to inadequate monitoring and updating procedures of files by the competent services.

In contrast to the report’s proposals, ELAM chooses to present fragmentary evidence and proposes unworkable “solutions”, such as cutting funds, without effectively addressing the real cause of the problems. Despite the rejection of various imaginative ideas that they have put forward from time to time, this political party and its European group continue to support conflicting views, far removed from the principle of European solidarity and international law. Instead of seeking solutions at the European level, such as the abolition of the Dublin regulations that would allow for a fairer distribution of refugees and migrants in the EU, they choose the easy path of populism, without any workable proposals.

Equally unsuccessful was the approach of the previous government, which instead of adopting rational management, preferred to spend millions of euros on building fences on the Green Line and hiring border guards, without any substantial results, which only strengthened the voices of division and intolerance.

Migration is a complex phenomenon that can only be effectively addressed at the EU level, with collective action, cooperation and always with respect for human dignity. Volt has a comprehensive management plan, with an emphasis on European solidarity, transparency and the protection of human rights.

  • Safe routes: Creation of humanitarian corridors and simplification of visas to avoid dangerous routes.

  • Common asylum system: Harmonisation of procedures with a maximum duration of three months and provision of support to applicants.

  • Fair relocation: Abolition of the first entry rule and fair distribution of applicants between member states.

  • Inclusion and social integration policies: Creation of language learning programs, access to education and the labour market.

  • Fast-track processing of applications: Employment of specialised lawyers and legal professionals to speed up asylum procedures.