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EU Accelerates Migrant Returns - Discussions in Cyprus on Syria-Afghanistan

Published January 23, 2026, 10:11
EU Accelerates Migrant Returns - Discussions in Cyprus on Syria-Afghanistan

EU Interior Ministers met in Cyprus to focus on the issue of migrant returns, particularly concerning Syria and Afghanistan. While the return rate has increased to 27% in 2025, from 19% the previous year, it is still considered low compared to EU targets. The Union is working closely with the UN and the International Organization for Migration, allocating significant funding to facilitate returns and support stability in countries of origin. Austria has made progress in direct deportations to Afghanistan and Syria, sparking interest from other member states. Approximately 1,000 Syrians left Austria in 2025, either through voluntary return or deportation, with around 10,000 asylum applications from Syrian citizens still pending. The EU aims to improve return procedures, considering humanitarian concerns and international cooperation. Discussions also included Cyprus's accession to the Schengen area, with the European Commission assessing that the country is on the right track. The process involves technical evaluations and improvements, and the final decision will be made by the Commission based on specific criteria. Cyprus's Undersecretary for Migration, Nicholas Ioannides, welcomed his counterparts to Nicosia, emphasizing the importance of the meeting for the Cypriot Presidency and addressing common challenges in the field of migration.

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