A N A LY S E DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS CYPRUS AS A NEW REFUGEE“HOTSPOT” IN EUROPE? Challenges for a Divided Country Nicos Trimikliniotis This report examines the refugee and migration situation in Cyprus. During the height of the 2015“refugee crisis”, the country did not witness a significant rise in the number of asylum applications. However, over the last three years, the country received the largest numbers ever recorded. As a result, the government’s approach has shifted towards a more restrictive migration policy – implemented through repressive measures. Recent changes include tougher “border” restrictions and fewer rights within the reception process. From a human rights perspective this is highly problematic. Despite the newest developments, there is little evidence that Cyprus is becoming a significant new refugee and migration route to Europe.