POLICY BRIEF DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS COUNTRY REPORT: CYPRUS Annagrace Messa, Asylum/Migration Civil Society Consultant December 2024 This report presents an overview of the migratory shifts and trends with a focus on Cyprus, situated at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East(MENA), has a broad migratory demographic tapestry. Having practically nonexistent integration policy for years, there seems to be a clear lack of interest in developing resilience scripts, promoted in an EU-level that are based on inclusion and integration. An updated holistic approach to migration is greatly needed to not only provide for legal migratory pathways but also ensure ensure the safety, protection, and human rights of those in need.

DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS COUNTRY REPORT: CYPRUS Research took place between March and August 2024, with the reports being written and produced in December 2024.

Contents 1. COUNTRY BACKGROUND.................................................. 5 2. MOBILITY PATTERNS AND SHIFTS....................................... 6 3. POLICIES AND DOMESTIC PREFERENCES............................ 10 4. PERCEPTIONS.................................................................. 13 CONCLUSION....................................................................... 16

FRIEDRICH-EBERT-STIFTUNG – COUNTRY REPORT: CYPRUS 1 COUNTRY BACKGROUND Historically, Cyprus has been an island with a high geopolitical value, situated as it is at the crossroads of Europe, Africa and the Middle East(MENA). Its rich and complex history is marked by periods of foreign rule and internal conflicts, all of which are reflected in the island’s culture, its current domestic and foreign policies, its internal and external relations, and population movements in the region. It is widely accepted that the Eastern Mediterranean is undergoing a period of systemic transition. 1 In the last decade, the region has experienced significant transformations due to interconnected factors such as geopolitical power shifts, regional and internal political instabilities, socio-economic challenges, and the effects of climate change. These have affected bilateral relations among states and external powers, population shifts, and the internal stability of the Middle East North Africa(MENA) Region. 2 More specifically, the region is still dealing with the aftermath of the 2013 global economic downturn and the Arab Spring protests and uprisings, while the ongoing civil wars in Syria and Yemen and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict are active and volatile situations. Since 7 October 2023, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has led to millions of Palestinians displaced and thousands dead, 3 while it has also brought on wider regional tensions. 4 Suppression of rights and freedoms, high unemployment, the Coronavirus(COVID-19) pandemic and, lastly, the effects of climate change such as water scarcity 5 and extreme weather conditions 6 have also contributed to the growing insecurity and tensions in the region. Moreover, the involve1 Spyridon, N.& Litsas, Aristotle Tziampiris(2016), The Eastern Mediterranean in Transition: Multipolarity, Politics and Power, Routledge. 2 Dabrowski, M.& Domínguez-Jiménez, M.(2021), Economic crisis in the Middle East and North Africa, Policy Contribution 02/2021, Bruegel. 3 Human Rights Watch, World Report 2024: Israel and Palestine Events of 2023 https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2024/country-chapters/ israel-and-palestine 4 By the time of publication of this report, Israel has started offensive operations against Lebanon and Iran. 5 Hall, N.(2024), Surviving Scarcity: Water and the Future of the Middle East, Center for Strategic and International Studies https://features.csis.org/surviving-scarcity-water-and-the-future-of-the-middle-east/#:~:text=Decades%20of%20poor%20water%20 management,sapped%20its%20limited%20water%20supplies 6 Wehrey, F., Dargin, J. ,Mehdi, Z., Muasher, M., Yahya, M., Kayssi, Ι ., Hassan, Ζ ., Andrews, Μ ., Madain, Μ ., Al-Mailam, Μ ., Hamzawy, Α ., Yerkes, S., Clasen, H., and Yabi, G.(2023), Climate Change and Vulnerability in the Middle East, https://carnegieendowment.org/posts/2023/07/climate-change-and-vulnerability-in-the-middle-east?lang=en ment of external powers continues to influence and shift the dynamics in the region. The role of Cyprus in the region is both complex and multifaceted. Since its accession to the European Union in 2004, Cyprus’s relations with the EU have been strengthened, while because of its its geopolitical position it has been and is used to bridge EU and MENA economic, cultural and political relations. At the same time, the island’s divided status, marked by ongoing territorial disputes and deteriorating relations between the RoC and the territories in the north not under the control of the RoC, hinder the participation of Cyprus as a strong regional player. The discovery of the natural gas reserves in the Eastern Mediterranean has caused further tension between the Republic of Cyprus(RoC) and Turkey, as Turkey continues its gas explorations in a region the RoC considers its own Exclusive Economic Zone(EEZ). 7 This energy dispute has involved several states in the region, and in 2019 resulted in establishment of the East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EastMed); Turkey did not join, as it preferred to pursue its own national interests and regional policies. Further, although the Cypriot economy is steadliy recovering from the financial crisis of 2013, 8 “Cyprus’ small size and import dependence [have] made the country vulnerable to external shocks.” 9 And while the US and UK military bases on the island reinforce the geopolitical influence and visibility of Cyprus on a global level, they also impose stricter margins on RoC foreign policy. The above-described situations have affected regional stability, and have led to one of the largest population movements ever recorded. Migration in the MENA region is linked to human insecurity due to conflict, socio-economic conditions and the COVID-19 pandemic. 10 In recent years there has been considerable migration within the region as well as towards the EU. 7 https://www.iemed.org/publication/the-cyprus-conflict-new-tensions-in-the-eastern-mediterranean/ 8 Country Report: Cyprus(2024), Alianze Trade https://www.allianz-trade.com/en_global/economic-research/country-reports/Cyprus.html#:~:text=Following%20the%20crisis%20in%20its,investment%2C%20consumer%20spending%20and%20tourism 9 https://www.allianz-trade.com/en_global/economic-research/country-reports/Cyprus.html#:~:text=Following%20the%20crisis%20in%20 its,investment%2C%20consumer%20spending%20and%20tourism 10“Region on the Move, Regional Mobility Report for the Middle East and North Africa, January-June 2021(2021), International Organisation for Migration(IOM) https://mena.iom.int/sites/g/files/ tmzbdl686/files/documents/region-on-the-move-8_1.pdf 5

Mobility Patterns and Shifts 2 MOBILITY PATTERNS AND SHIFTS Considering its proximity to the MENA region, Cyprus’s steady economic recovery since 2016 and the EU-Turkey Agreements of the same year have“made Cyprus once again an attractive destination for migrants.” 11 From EU Nationals, digital nomads, ex-pats, golden visas, and work visas(including domestic, construction and agricultural workers), to those who seek international protection and as well as trafficking victims, Cyprus has a broad migratory demographic tapestry. IRREGULAR MIGRATION Even though Cyprus is not the first choice of those aiming to reach EU countries, due to the island’s lack of land borders with other EU countries, the progressive closing of other routes to the EU has led to an increase in migratory flows towards Cyprus. Immigrants access the RoC territory through the main entry points, and also irregularly by sea and by illegally crossing over from the northern part of the island. For the greater part of the last decade, Cyprus has hosted the highest number of refugees per capita among all EU countries. Throughout the last decade a steady increase in new arrivals has been observed—apart from 2020 when, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the numbers dropped to half of the usual flow: the total number of first applications for international protection dropped to 7,094 from 13,259 in 2019. 12 In 2021, the number returned to 2019 levels with 13,773 applications registered. While in 2022 the number of first applications rose to 22,182, 13 in 2023 the numbers dropped again, to 10,662. 14 By the end of June 2024, 4,899 applications were registered, which includes unaccompanied and separated children(UASC) among those who applied for asylum. According to the June 2024 Cyprus Fact sheet, published by UNHCR Cyprus,“some 22,516 persons are currently regis11 Kantaris, M& Theodorou, M.(2022),“Cyprus’ ongoing migration challenge”, ESPN Flash Report 2022/01, European Social Policy Network, European Commission. 12 Drousiotou, C.& Mathioudakis, M.( 2021), Asylum Information Database: Cyprus Country Report-2020 Update https://asylumineurope.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/AIDA-CY_2020update.pdf 13 Drousiotou, C.& Mathioudakis, M.(2023), Asylum Information Database: Cyprus Country Report-2022 Update https://asylumineurope. org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AIDA-CY_2022update.pdf 14 Drousiotou ,C.& Mathioudakis, M.(2024), Asylum Information Database: Cyprus Country Report-2023 Update https://asylumineurope. org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/AIDA-CY_2023-Update.pdf tered as international protection beneficiaries in the RoC; 4,123 have been granted refugee status, and 18,393 have been awarded subsidiary protection.” 15 In 2022, there were some 925 UASC applications for asylum; in 2023 there were 380. EASO data reports that in 2023“1,015 UASC were registered as having arrived at Pournara First Reception Center.” 16 From January to June 2024, there were 474 UASC applications for asylum 17 Furthermore, in 2022, following the invasion of Ukraine, 15,275 individuals 18 were offered temporary protection 19 in Cyprus, a number that rose to 20,020 by the end of March 2024. 20 By the end of 2023, the number of pending applications for international protection had risen to 26,599. 21 It is important to note that by June 2024, there was 65% increase in migrants arriving by sea in comparison to June 2023. 22 For the last five years the main countries of origin have primarily remained the same, although numbers per country have varied from year to year. Syria remains the top country of origin for applications in the last decade. From the total number of cases examined annually, on average 95% receive subsidiary protection. By the end of June 2024, 3,801 new applications were registered, while 12,801 applications are still pending. 23 For this same period, the top five countries of origin for new applications were the Syrian Arab Republic, 15 UNHCR Cyprus_Country Fact Sheet_2024.06_ENG.pdf https://data. unhcr.org/en/documents/details/110242 16 Ibid 17 Ibid 18 European Migration Network(2023), Annual report on Migration and Asylum 2022 ,EMN-Inform https://www.moi.gov.cy/moi/CRMD/ emnncpc.nsf/All/8CBAE29D3C99A16FC22589E80032043E/$file/ EMN_INFORM_ARM2022_FINAL_050723.pdf?OpenElement 19 Council Implementing Decision(EU) 2022/382 of 4 March 2022 establishing the existence of a mass influx of displaced persons from Ukraine within the meaning of Article 5 of Directive 2001/55/EC, and having the effect of introducing temporary protection https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ TXT/?uri=uriserv%3AOJ.L_.2022.071.01.0001.01.ENG&toc=OJ%3AL%3A2022%3A071%3AFULL 20 Governance of migrant integration in Cyprus(2024) ,European Website on Integration https://migrant-integration.ec.europa.eu/country-governance/governance-migrant-integration-cyprus_en 21 Drousiotou, C.& Mathioudakis, M.( 2024) 22 EUROPE SITUATIONS: DATA AND TRENDS, ARRIVALS AND DISPLACED POPULATIONS(2024), Regional Bureau for Europe. 23 UNHCR Cyprus_Country Fact Sheet_2024.06_ENG.pdf https://data. unhcr.org/en/documents/details/110242 6

FRIEDRICH-EBERT-STIFTUNG – COUNTRY REPORT: CYPRUS the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Afghanistan, and Nigeria. 24 Applications from Afghani and Nigerian migrants increased in 2022 and 2023, while applications from countries such as India, Pakistan, Georgia and Bangladesh fell significantly. The amended Refugee Law, Article 12D, in force since 12 October 2020, specifies“that an application may be examined under the accelerated procedure and is prioritised within 30 days from the date of submission of an application.” 25 The accelerated procedure applies to countries that are considered safe, 26 and was piloted in 2019 for applicants of Georgian nationality, while in 2020, the list grew from one safe country to 21. 27 It is important to note that prior to this new procedure, almost 100% of these cases were rejected. According to the IOM Displacement Tracking Matrix, in June 2023 there were 735 arrivals by sea, a number that rose to 1,717 by the end of 2023. At the end of June 2024, that number declined to 170 sea arrivals. 28 Importantly, we cannot examine arrivals by sea without discussing those who do not make it. For the year 2024, a total of 78 persons were declared dead or missing in the Eastern Mediterranean; in 2023 there were 171, and in 2022, 383 persons- the highest number recorded since 2015 and 2016, with 804 and 434 persons, respectively. 29 The identified trafficking cases in Cyprus reveal the main purposes to be forced labour(including agricultural and domestic work) and sexual exploitation, primarily targeting vulnerable individuals, women, unaccompanied children, Roma, and asylum seekers. The 2024 report on trafficking in persons Cyprus 30 also noted a serious exploitation of domestic and foreign workers in the country over the past five years.“Foreign victims identified in Cyprus in 2023 were from Bangladesh, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Greece, India, Nepal, Nigeria, the Philippines, and Russia. In previous years, victims were also from Cameroon, the People’s Republic of China, Czech Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Moldova, Romania, Sri Lanka, Syria, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.” 31 The numbers reported are being questioned by civil society organisations(CSOs) working in this field, who refer to the authorities’ of lack of interest and effort in tackling the issue. 32 LEGAL MIGRATION In addition to those fleeing conflicts and persecution, applying for asylum or visas on the merits of humanitarian reasons, Cyprus receives a steady increase in victims of trafficking, exploitation, domestic violence, again with a certain decline during 2020 and 2021 owing to the COVID-19 travelling restrictions. The country offers are two permit categories, temporary residence and permanent residency. Most temporary permits are issued for the purposes of work, study, family reunification, and visiting. For permits issued for the purpose of work, some prominent trends have been identified. A significant number of persons from Greece and Eastern Europe, facing economic difficulties, moved to Cyprus for better employment opportunities. Especially for Greeks, Cyprus became a favorable destination due to cultural and language similarities. Since its accession to the EU, Cyprus has been a favorable employment destination for individuals from Eastern European countries. Additionally, the island hosts a large community of south Asian nationalities employed under various work visas, but predominantly for domestic and agricultural work. The majority of these individuals are from the Philippines, Thailand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, India and Vietnam, whose access and visas are usually facilitated by agents. In a 2020 study on the status of foreign domestic workers in Cyprus conducted by the University of Central Lancashire Cyprus and the Commissioner for the Administration and the Protection of Human Rights(Cyprus Ombudsman), it was found that, among other things, foreign domestic workers are at the margins of immigration and employment policies. 33 The latest Eurostat Migration and Migrant Population Statistics Report stated that“as of 1 January 2023, there were about 90,500 third-country nationals(TCNs), representing 9.8% of the population, and another 93,100 EU citizens (10.1%) living in Cyprus at the time[…] while by March 2024 the number of temporary protection holders from Ukraine reached 20,020. 34 More specifically, the UNHCR Cyprus Fact Sheet states that in the RoC there are currently 43,314 refugees(including 20407 persons from Ukraine), 29,541 asylum seekers, and 98 stateless persons, while in the north of the island there are 142 persons. 35 24 Ibid 25 https://euaa.europa.eu/easo-asylum-report-2021/433-accelerated-procedures#:~:text=In%20Cyprus%2C%20the%20amended%20 Refugee,of%20submission%20of%20an%20application. 26 Επίσημη Εφημερίδα της Κυπριακής Δημοκρατίας, Αρ. 5703 -1381, Αριθμός 202 https://www.mof.gov.cy/mof/gpo/gazette.nsf/7727D72567EC96F4C225884F00233AD8/$file/5703%2027%20 5%202022%20PARARTIMA%203o%20MEROS%20I.pdf 27 Drousiotou ,C.& Mathioudakis, M.( 2021), 28 Displacement Tracking Matrix(2024), IOM https://dtm.iom.int/content/europe-migration-arrivals-dashboard 29 Displacement Tracking Matrix(2024), IOM https://dtm.iom.int/europe/dead-and-missing 30 Trafficking in Persons Report: Cyprus(2024), US Department of State, https://www.state.gov/reports/2024-trafficking-in-persons-report/cyprus/ 31 Ibid 32 Kades, A.(2024), Trafficking numbers far worse than reports suggest, Cyprus Mail https://cyprus-mail.com/2024/03/10/traffickingCyprus is also one of the few countries to offer citizenship by investment scheme, 36 also known as the Golden Visa/Passport Scheme. The program was reinstated in the beginning of numbers-far-worse-than-reports-suggest/ 33 Hadjigeorgiou, N.& Mertekka, D.(2020), Report on the Status of Foreign Domestic workers in Cyprus, University of Central Lancashire Cyprus, Commissioner for Administration and protection of Human Rights https://equineteurope.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Cyprus-Domestic-Workers.pdf 34 Governance of migrant integration in Cyprus(2024), European Commission https://migrant-integration.ec.europa.eu/country-governance/governance-migrant-integration-cyprus_en#statistics 35 Bi-annual fact Sheet 2024 09: Cyprus(2024), UNHCR https://www. unhcr.org/europe/media/bi-annual-fact-sheet-2024-09-cyprus 36 Άδειες Μετανάστευσης Επενδυτών, Τμήμα Μετανάστευσης, Υφυπουργείο Μετανάστευσης και Διεθνούς Προστασίας https:// www.mip.gov.cy/dmmip/md.nsf/immigrationpfi_el/immigrationpfi_ el?OpenDocument 7

Country background 2024, after a scandal in 2020 shut it down. Further, in late 2021, the Council of Ministers launched a new scheme for digital nomads. 37 This scheme follows an EU-wide trend 38 that offers a temporary residence permit for up to 2 years, and includes the applicant’s family. Cyprus imposed a limit on the number of such visas, which increased to a 500 cap in March 2023. 39 There are also other migration permits for third country nationals(TCNs), 40 for whom specific criteria apply. Unfortunately, official data/information on the number of permits and visas issued is not available publicly, nor is there any further data 41 related to country of origin, gender, age, etc. Anthropocene’ explores 15 dimensions and subdimensions of the index of Perceived Human Insecurity, identifying challenges relevant to insecurities due to political instability and violent conflicts, socioeconomic insecurities and personal and community insecurities, noting that“human security is about living free from want, free from fear and free from indignity. It is about protecting what we humans care most about in our lives.” 45 Threats to human security include poverty, inequality, hunger, environment, disease, violence and prosecution, political repression and human rights violations, 46 all of which are prominent issues in the region. A topic that has been increasingly discussed in recent years is the student visas issued by universities operating in the north (the TRNC), which are speculated to facilitate trafficking and exploitation. 42 There have been similar discussions about students from third countries attending universities in the ROC, and it has been alleged that many are using their student status to seek employment or to apply for asylum. To address these issues, in 2020 the Council of Ministers tightened entry requirements, 43 while in July 2024 the Cabinet approved a Ministry of Education proposal to cap the number of students admitted to private higher education institutions for the academic year 2024-2025. 44 HUMAN INSECURITY As it is seen as a relatively safe country, Cyprus continues to play a significant role in the broader context of migration within the Eastern Mediterranean, MENA and the EU. The 2022 ‘Special Report of UNDP: New threats to human security in the 37 Τμήμα Μετανάστευσης (2022), Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa Scheme, Υφυπουργείο Μετανάστευσης και Διεθνούς Προστασίας https://www.mip.gov.cy/dmmip/md.nsf/All/9207F50B0EEC8F87C2258921002C8333/$file/DIGITAL%20NOMAD%20VISA%20 SCHEME%20-%20EN.pdf 38 Digital Nomads Policies in the European Context, Talent Hub project, IOM Denmark and IOM Germany, https://denmark.iom.int/sites/g/ files/tmzbdl1306/files/documents/TalentHub/overview.-digital-nomad-policies-in-the-european-context_clean.pdf 39 Digital Nomads and family members, Τμήμα Μετανάστευσης, Υφυπουργείο Μετανάστευσης και Διεθνούς Προστασίας https://www.mip.gov.cy/dmmip/md.nsf/all/BF9908B541BFF7D3C22587EA003CD306?opendocument#:~:text=The%20%22Cyprus%20Digital%20Nomad%20Visa%22%20Scheme%20 allows%20nationals%20from%20non,through%20telecommunications%20technology%20for%20companies 40 Κατηγορίες άδειων μετανάστευσης, Τμήμα Μετανάστευσης, Υφυπουργείο Μετανάστευσης και Διεθνούς Προστασίας https:// www.mip.gov.cy/dmmip/md.nsf/All/C3BEADF8B9D534B0C22587CE0030CFD2?OpenDocument 41 On the EMN publications there is a specific disclaimer about relevant data missing from Cyprus. 42 Cleaver, T.(2024), Cyprus raises alarm over link between north universities and people smuggling, Cyprus Mail https://cyprus-mail. com/2024/06/17/cyprus-raises-alarm-over-link-between-north-universities-and-people-smuggling/ 43 Cyprus opens door to cheap labour by changing rules for foreign students(2024), Philenews https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/insider/cyprus-opens-door-to-cheap-labour-by-changing-rules-for-foreign-students/ 44 Cyprus sets limits on third-country students in higher education (2024), Philenews, https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/insider/cyprussets-limits-on-third-country-students-in-higher-education/ Considering political instability and violent conflicts, we can observe several ongoing situations that influence population movements towards Cyprus. The civil war in Syria has resulted in widespread displacement, destruction of infrastructure, and economic hardship for its people, most of whom have been displaced internally but many of whom have taken refuge in nearby countries. The conflict in Yemen has also led to significant displacement and forced migration, while the situations in Libya, Iraq and Lebanon have also contributed to population movements. And although Ukraine is outside the region, its recent invasion by Russia has also led to forced migration, and can explain the Ukrainian community on the island. Finally, the situation in Gaza as well as the recent Israeli offensives against Lebanon, will likely bring a new wave of immigration to Cyprus. From a socioeconomic point of view, many of the countries in the region that face political instabilities and conflicts also face economic downturns, inflation and market crashes; these often produce financial inequalities, poverty, unemployment and scarcity of resources. Many countries neighboring Cyprus currently face such struggles, which especially affect the younger generation, 47 encouraging them to look for better prospects elsewhere. Their vulnerability resulting from such issues is easily exploited, and the numerous smuggling and trafficking networks operating in the region are testament to this. Finally, migration in the region is driven by personal as well as societal insecurities, including human rights abuse such as ethnic or other discrimination, prosecution and violence, arbitrary detention, torture, and even fear for one’s life. What is relatively new- and will affect population movements in the years to come- is environmental insecurities. The geography and climate of the region, significantly worsened by recent climate changes such as increasing temperatures, shifting of atmospheric systems, increased droughts and 45 Tapia, H., et al.(2022), New Threats to Human Security in the Anthropocene-Demanding greater solidarity, UNDP Special Report, https://hs.hdr.undp.org/pdf/srhs2022.pdf 46 Human Security Handbook(2016), United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security, https://www.un.org/humansecurity/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/h2.pdf 47 OECD(2022), Youth at the Centre of Government Action A Review of the Middle East and North Africa https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/ sites/bcc2dd08-en/1/3/1/index.html?itemId=/content/publication/bcc2dd08-en&_csp_=6e439cfc8350d8ddeb8dbc0a4f96be40&itemIGO=oecd&itemContentType=book#chapter-d1e1438 8

desertification, are certain to affect migration patterns. 48 Food insecurity, diseases and loss of livelihood are already disproportionally affecting many resource-poor countries and will become an even more significant security topic in the near future. Health and access to adequate medical care and protections also affect human security. COVID-19 was a great reminder of this, causing a significant impact on population movements globally. After the initial temporary decline in mobility due to the various travel restrictions and lockdowns, the pandemic also triggered shifts in migration patterns. Due to loss of employment, marginalization and subsequent increase in vulnerability, some economic migrants returned to their countries of origin. In the same way, many Cypriots living abroad decided to return to Cyprus during the pandemic, while travel restrictions on the island, including the closing of the check points, hindered movement across the divide again, after 17 years. 49 As traditional migration routes were disrupted, an increase in irregular migration was observed. The wider regional insecurity, but also more specifically the ongoing offensive in Gaza and neighboring Lebanon, could well lead to further movements in the region, both legal and irregular. FRIEDRICH-EBERT-STIFTUNG – COUNTRY REPORT: CYPRUS 48 Wehrey, F., Dargin, J.,Mehdi, Z., Muasher, M., Yahya, M., Kayssi, Ι ., Hassan, Ζ ., Andrews, Μ ., Madain, Μ ., Al-Mailam, Μ ., Hamzawy, Α ., Yerkes, S., Clasen, H., and Yabi, G.(2023), Climate Change and Vulnerability in the Middle East, https://carnegieendowment. org/posts/2023/07/climate-change-and-vulnerability-in-the-middle-east?lang=en 49 Lyritsas, L.(2020), Coronavirus tears Greek and Turkish Cypriots apart— again, DW https://www.dw.com/en/cyprus-greek-turkish-cypriots-coronavirus-restrictions/a-55132876 9

Policies and domestic preferences 3 POLICIES AND DOMESTIC PREFERENCES In the last five years, Cyprus has implemented several policy changes in response to evolving mobility trends and regional dynamics. These changes have been made in an attempt to manage migration flows, address security concerns and deter further movement towards the island, and to respond to the geopolitical shifts in the Eastern Mediterranean. In response to the rising number of asylum applications, in 2022 Cyprus began to step up the‘accelerated procedure’ to process asylum applications. 50 This process aimed to reduce the backlog of cases that had piled up over the years, shorten the deadline for appeal, and decide the status of new applications more quickly by using the list of safe countries and stricter criteria to filter applications and prioritizing the return and deportation of individuals whose claims were rejected. 51 Thus, in the last five years there have been more cases of detention and deportation, while applications from Syrians were suspended in April 2024. 52 It is interesting to note that while this has been the general policy, refugees from Ukraine were treated significantly different in Cyprus – as well as in Europe. With the Temporary Protection Directive 53 activated EU-wide and transposed into the national refugee law in March of 2022, the process for application for temporary protection, issuance of residence permits and their automatic renewal until March 2025 ensured their immediate protection, including access to rights, immediate access to the labour market without restriction, and access to education. The use of detention centers and de facto detention centers has also increased in the last five years. Aside from the Menoyia Detention Center, the Pournara Reception Center was used as a de facto detention center between 2020 and 2022, where“the stay at the Centre is supposed to be for 72 hours and for the purpose of registration, lodging asylum applications, and medical and vulnerability screenings. Instead, for this period, persons remained for much longer periods, in 50 Drousiotou, C.& Mathioudakis, M.( 2023) 51 Article 12A IPAC Law 52 Postponing the assessment of asylum applications for persons of Syrian nationality(2024), PhileNews https://www.philenews. com/politiki/article/1459234/proedros-anastellete-i-exetasi-etiseon-asilou-se-oles-tis-periptosis-prosopon-siriakis-katagogis/ 53 Temporary protection, European Commission https://home-affairs. ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/common-european-asylum-system/temporary-protection_en many cases ranging between three to five months. Furthermore, the terms for release from the centre were often unclear, changed arbitrarily or were impossible to meet(e.g., proof of a rental agreement). The situation had led to a significant rise in the number of persons in the Centre, initially from 350 to 700.” 54 The government has also sought to increase the number of returns. In 2023, Cyprus had the hightest percentage of returns among EU countries, while it ranked fourth in absolute numbers(9,193 persons in 2023; 5,800 in 2022). 55 Furthermore, beginning in 2020, the RoC government has aimed to improve its border control measures. Aside from increasing patrols(land and sea), the government also sought to physically reinforce the“Green Line” with barbed wire, 56 while also tightening controls at crossing points and making stricter checks. The RoC has installed new surveillance technology, 57 while it cooperates with Frontex to monitor and secure maritime and land borders; this includes registration, return-related support using a team of forced return and support officers, 58 and document fraud detection. 59 There has been a growing concern around the above policies, especially in regard to land and sea pushbacks. Regarding the situation where migrants were forced to stay in the buffer zone for several weeks, the UNHCR stated that the migrants had managed to cross and then were pushed back. 60 This was a significant issue in the summer of 2024, creating tensions between the Cypriot authorities, UNFICYP and UN54 Drousiotou, C.& Mathioudakis, M.(2023) 55 Drousiotou, C.& Mathioudakis, M.(2024) 56 Cypriot government to remove barbed wire fence along Green Line (2024), E-Kathimerini.com https://www.ekathimerini.com/politics/ foreign-policy/1244388/cypriot-government-to-remove-barbedwire-fence-along-green-line/ 57 Ισραηλινό σύστημα επιτήρησης με κάμερες και drones στην Πράσινη Γραμμή στην Κύπρο(2021), Πρώτο Θέμα https://www. protothema.gr/world/article/1178210/israilino-sustima-epitirisis-stin-prasini-grammi-stin-kupro/AMP/ 58 Frontex deploys return team to Cyprus(2022), Frontex https://www. frontex.europa.eu/media-centre/news/news-release/frontex-deploysreturn-team-to-cyprus-K2qjVl 59 Frontex support in Cyprus(2022), Frontex https://www.frontex.europa.eu/media-centre/news/news-release/frontex-support-in-cyprus-jAjSaN 60‘Buffer zone migrants’ lead to clash between government and UN (2024), Cyprus Mail https://cyprus-mail.com/2024/06/23/bufferzone-migrants-lead-to-clash-between-government-and-un/ 10

FRIEDRICH-EBERT-STIFTUNG – COUNTRY REPORT: CYPRUS HCR. 61 According to the UNHCR bi-annual Fact Sheet:“Since 15 May 2024, 159 asylum-seekers who attempted to seek international protection in the government-controlled areas in Cyprus were pushed back to the UN Buffer Zone. From the 5th September until today, 62 75 asylum-seekers remained stranded in two locations within the UN Buffer Zone.” 63 The first reported Cypriot sea pushbacks occurred in 2020, 64 involving nine boats; in 2021 another nine boats were reportedly pushed back; while in 2022 four boats were reported to have been returned to Lebanon, and another two boats in 2023. Anti-trafficking efforts also seem to have intensified, considering the island’s position as a transit hub. However, although there is new legislation targeting traffickers, and victim support services have been set up to assist those affected by trafficking, there has been much criticism regarding implementation. Civil society organisations cite some positive developments in the handling and referral of cases, but note problems in prioritising the trafficking claims, as well as a lack of psychological and/or legal support for these victims to process their trauma and present their case adequately. 65 PARTNERSHIPS WITH THE EU AND OTHER KEY PARTNERS In an effort to receive more support for handling immigration, the RoC emphasizes the fact that it has the highest per capita refugee intake in the EU. Its lobbying efforts have several objectives: redistribution of asylum seekers among EU member states; support for border control; policy level changes, such as the Dublin regulation. At present, Cyprus receives support for migration management from the European Union Agency for Asylum(EUAA), the EU Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation(Europol) and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency(Frontex). 66 61 Deputy Minister responds to UNFICYP regarding migration role (2024), Philenews https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/local/deputy-minister-responds-to-unficyp-regarding-migration-role/ 62 https://www.gov.cy/metanastefsi/anakoinosi-tou-yfypourgeiou-metanastefsis-kai-diethnous-prostasias-gia-to-thema-ton-paratypon-metanaston-sti-nekri-zoni/ 63 Bi-annual fact sheet 2024 09: Cyprus(2024), UNHCR https://www. unhcr.org/europe/media/bi-annual-fact-sheet-2024-09-cyprus 64 By the time of publication of this report, the European Court of Human Rights(ECHR) decision that condemned Cyprus for pushing back Syrian asylum seekers to Lebanon in 2020, found, in another decision, that Cyprus had been in violation of Article 3(prohibition of inhuman or degrading treatment) of the European Convention on Human Rights.“The Court found that the Cypriot authorities had essentially returned M.A. and Z.R. to Lebanon without processing their asylum claims and without all the steps required under the Refugee Law. It was evident from the Government’s submissions that the national authorities had not conducted any assessment of the risk of lack of access to an effective asylum process in Lebanon or the living conditions of asylum-seekers there and had not assessed the risk of refoulement  the forcible return of refugees to a country where they might be subjected to persecution. Nor had they examined the specific situation of the individuals concerned.” ECHR 228(08.10.2024) https://hudoc.echr.coe.int/eng-press#{% 22fulltext%22:[%22cyprus%22],%22kpdate%22:[%222024-0919T00:00:00.0Z%22,%222024-10-19T00:00:00.0Z%22]} 65 Drousiotou, C.& Mathioudakis, M.(2024) 66 Migration management in Cyprus(2024), Migration and Home AfCyprus has been working to improve its relations with Lebanon and Jordan through bilateral agreements and diplomatic discussions that focus on migration and managing migration flows. While Cyprus and Lebanon signed a bilateral agreement in 2020 aimed to intercept persons migrating to Cyprus, in 2024 the Cypriot president and other high officials critcised Lebabon for not doing enough and not upholding the agreement, while they also urged the EU to review the status of Syria, so that returns of Syrian nationals could take place. 67 It is important to mention that this was ahead of the 2024 EP Elections, where migration was a prevalent topic of discussion in Cyprus and all throughout Europe. Cyprus has also been advocating, over the last five years, for a stronger EU stance against Turkey on the issue of facilitating irregular migration. The RoC has been asking for sanctions and other measures to pressure Turkey into managing flows and border control. 68 This issue, together with the activities of Turkey in the region over maritime boundaries and natural gas exploration, 69 have heightened tensions between Cyprus and Turkey. The topic of natural gas exploration is also important for other countries in the region, i.e.,“legal and political challenges are being manifested in the debate and dispute over conflicting claims about the ownership of resources and the demarcation of maritime borders, namely between Lebanon and Israel, between the Republic of Cyprus, Turkey and‘Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus’.” 70 Given the current situation in the region, especially Israel’s offensive operations in Gaza and Lebanon, Cyprus has been preparing for a possible transit of persons in the coming months. Cyprus has been included in the‘Estia’ plan for evacuation of up to 100,000 people, targeting predominately EU and US citizens currently residing in Lebanon. 71 Furthermore,“Cyprus anticipates an influx of Lebanese individuals arriving on private yachts seeking refuge at Larnaca port. There is also a concern about Lebanese nationals who previously obtained Cypriot citizenship and may now seek asylum in Cyprus,” while the island is also expecting“mass departures of boats from Lebanese shores towards Cyprus,” 72 which would include a new influx of Syrian nationals currently residing in Lebanon. fairs, European Commission https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/migration-management/migration-management-cyprus_en 67 Cyprus demands Lebanon control migrant flows(2024), Politico https://www.politico.eu/article/nikos-christodoulides-cyprus-lebanon-refugees-to-control-migratory-flows/ 68 Ecre Weekly Bulletin(Feb 2022), Cyprus: Government Blames Turkey for High Number of Arrivals and Requests Frontex Patrols – Leggeri Promises Support and Facilitation of Returns, ECRE https://ecre. org/cyprus-government-blames-turkey-for-high-number-of-arrivals-and-requests-frontex-patrols-leggeri-promises-support-and-facilitation-of-returns/ 69 East Mediterranean Gas: Regional Cooperation or Source of Tensions?(2017), Barcelona Centre for International Affairs https:// www.cidob.org/en/publications/east-mediterranean-gas-regional-cooperation-or-source-tensions 70 Ibid 71 Cyprus prepares for potential evacuation of up to 100,000 people from Lebanon(2024), Philenews https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/local/cyprus-prepares-for-potential-evacuation-of-up-to-100000-people-from-lebanon/ 72 Ibid 11

Cyprus does not have bilateral agreements in regard to employment; these are not standard policy in Cyprus, according to the Department of Labour. 73 However, some bilateral agreements do exist, notably in regard to the transference of social insurance contributions to the country of origin. One such an example is that signed with Egypt in 1988, which also covers cases of old age, disability and death. 74 Similar agreements exist with the following countries: Canada, Serbia, Slovak Republic, Syria, the Netherlands, Australia, Austria, Czech Republic, Greece, Quebec, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.“The bilateral agreements that Cyprus has concluded with member states of the EU have been replaced by the EU Regulations 883/04 and 987/09, which coordinate the social security systems of the member states” (Social Insurance Services, Cyprus). 75 Policies and domestic preferences 73 Bilateral Agreements, Department of Labour, Cyprus https://www. mlsi.gov.cy/mlsi/dl/dl.nsf/page5c_en/page5c_en?OpenDocument 74 Study on Bilateral Labour And Social Security Agreements In North Africa(2017), International Labour Organisation https://www.ilo. org/publications/study-bilateral-labour-and-social-security-agreements-north-africa 75 Social Insurance Services, Bilateral Agreements, https://www.mlsi. gov.cy/mlsi/sid/sidv2.nsf/page92_en/page92_en?OpenDocument 12

FRIEDRICH-EBERT-STIFTUNG – COUNTRY REPORT: CYPRUS 4 PERCEPTIONS Policies at the center of public discourse in Cyprus range from the‘Cyprus Problem’ to the domestic and foreign policies related to migration and refugees. The topic of migration is also heavily politicised, especially in the run up to any elections, with the most recent example being the elections for the European Representatives, and previously for the presidential elections, with campaigns vilifying migrants and refugees in an effort to gain the popular vote. In fact, such narratives seem to be feeding each other. A 2022 study conducted by the University of Cyprus on behalf of UNHCR Cyprus 76 revealed many misconceptions about the number, origin, status, legitimacy, access to rights and benefits of refugees and asylum seekers in Cyprus. The study also pointed to the role of the media in the dissemination of misinformation, with over one-third of participants getting their information from the TV, and more than one-fourth from social media and other internet sources. It is important to note- in comparison to a similar study conducted in 201877 an increase in the percentage of participants who support policies that advocate the return of refugees to their countries of origin, transfering refugees to other countries and putting a cap on the number of refugees that Cyprus can host. At the same time the study revealed a decrease in the percentage of participants who support refugees’ right to Cypriot citizenship after five years on the island. Interestingly, despite the large number of refugees from Ukraine, study participants did not consider them refugees. Furthermore, the same report showed that 41.1% of participants felt that refugees and asylum seekers negatively impact the economy, while 38% believe their presence threatens Cypriot culture. 78 76 Psaltis, C., Nicolaou, A., Perivolaraki, M., Anastasiou, E., Karakondylou, M., Georgiou, V.(2023), Perceptions of Cypriots about Refugees, Asylum Seekers and Migrants, University of Cyprus on behalf of UNHCR Cyprus, https://www.unhcr.org/cy/wp-content/uploads/ sites/41/2023/03/UNHCR-Opinion-Poll_Full-Report_March-2023.pdf 77 Psaltis, C., Kadianaki, I., Nicolaou, A., Panayiotou, E.(2019), Perceptions of Cypriots about Refugees and Migrants, University of Cyprus on behalf of UNHCR Cyprus https://www.unhcr.org/cy/ wp-content/uploads/sites/41/2019/03/Perceptions_FULL-REPORT-FINAL_8March2019.pdf 78 Psaltis, C., Nicolaou, A., Perivolaraki, M., Anastasiou, E., Karakondylou, M., Georgiou, V.(2023), Perceptions of Cypriots about Refugees, Asylum Seekers and Migrants, University of Cyprus on behalf of UNHCR Cyprus, https://www.unhcr.org/cy/wp-content/uploads/ sites/41/2023/03/UNHCR-Opinion-Poll_Full-Report_March-2023.pdf Additionally, the survey showed that over one-third of participants believe, that Cyprus currently hosts over 50,000 refugees and asylum seekers, the majority from African countries (47.8%) followed by various Middle Eastern countries (29.8%). 79 Participants’ concerns“focus mainly on the small size of Cyprus which, in their opinion, makes the country incapable of hosting‘so many’ migrants, in both 2018 and 2022, with percentages of 61.8% and 57.3%, respectively. There also appears to be a small increase from 2018 to 2022 regarding concerns over possible changes in the island’s demographics(34.4% and 39.3%, respectively) and fear of criminal/violent behaviour(35.9% and 42.5%, respectively).” 80 The negative narrative around migrants and refugees has contributed to an increase in xenophobic and violent attacks on the island. According to the 2023 AIDA Report on Cyprus, “in 2023, there was a significant surge in violence against migrants in Cyprus, with incidents including pogrom-like demonstrations and violent attacks against racialized people, including migrants and refugees.” 81 Following incidents in Chloraka and Limassol where migrant-owned shops were destroyed and several people were attacked by mobs, Amnesty International urged“authorities in Cyprus to take immediate measures to tackle racist rhetoric and abuse, which have been on the rise in the country for years.” 82 Emmanuel Achiri, Policy and Advocacy Officer for the European Network Against Racism further noted that“the latest attacks on racialised migrants is a direct consequence of government policies encouraging racism, hate speech, xenophobia and intolerance within Cypriot society. We urge the authorities to take decisive action to stem violence against racialized migrants and to hold those responsible for encouraging it to account. We strongly denounce the total silence of EU Member States in the wake of yet another wave of violence against migrants.” 83 79 Ibid 80 Ibid 81 Drousiotou, C.& Mathioudakis, M.(2024), Asylum Information Database: Cyprus Country Report-2023 Update https://asylumineurope. org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/AIDA-CY_2023-Update.pdf 82 Cyprus: Authorities must protect migrants and refugees from racist attacks(2023), Amnesty International https://www.amnesty. org/en/latest/news/2023/09/cyprus-authorities-must-protect-migrants-and-refugees-from-racist-attacks/ 83 Ibid 13

Perceptions Cyprus has made several policy changes over the last five years in response to the recent population movements and trends. Aside from tightening its asylum and immigration policies, increasing border controls by land and sea, the country has sought greater support and cooperation with the EU, while demanding that neighboring countries assist in managing these challenges. The ongoing situation on the island(i.e., the unresolved conflict) and the tense relations with authorities in the north and with Turkey continue to be central issues, affecting both domestic and external policy making. While these policy changes reflect the efforts to tackle security concerns, they often leave the state exposed as negligent in their humanitarian obligations. PROTECTION AND ACCESS TO RIGHTS The rights of third country nationals heavily depend on their status, i.e., whether they are refugees, recognised refugees, subsidiary protection holders, or asylum seekers. Whereas refugees enjoy similar rights as nationals, 84 asylum seekers face many limitations, especially in the employment sector. They all have one important common right, however- the right to non-refoulement. This is a fundamental right for all refugees and asylum seekers, and it means that no matter how they have arrived on the island, they are protected from deportation or return before a decision is issued on their refugee application. However, as we noted earlier, there have been several cases of pushbacks over the last five years. Refugees’ employment/access to the labour market has been an important issue and the topic of ongoing discussions. After many years of advocacy from civil society and the private sector due to the need for additional labour force in specific sectors, in 2018 several favourable changes were enacted, such as earlier access to the labour market(after one month from the date of application) and an increase in the eligible employment sectors. However, in October 2023, after the Ministerial Decision 312/2023, access to the labour market was pushed back to 9 months, while a new administrative process for hiring asylum seekers was stipulated. 85 Such actions not only affected asylum seekers’ access to the labour market, it also alienated the private sector. At present only recognised refugees and subsidiary protection holders have full access to the labour market. 86 Access to social benefits also depends on legal status; again, while recognised refugees and subsidiary protection holders have same rights as nationals, asylum seekers have only limited access. Furthermore, a single person is allowed a maximum benefit of 361 euros per month, which includes rental allowance(100 EUR). 87 84 UNHCR Help Page: Cyprus https://help.unhcr.org/cyprus/ 85 Ministerial Decision 312/2023, pursuant to art. 9Θ (1)(b) of the Refugee Law available in Greek, at: https://tinyurl.com/ycycztjy 86 UNHCR Help Page: Cyprus – Refugees rights and duties https://help. unhcr.org/cyprus/refugees-rights-and-duties/refugee-rights/ 87 UNHCR Help Page: Cyprus – Asylum Seekers rights and duties https://help.unhcr.org/cyprus/applying-for-asylum/your-rights-andduties-as-an-asylum-seeker/ Cyprus offers healthcare and education to all refugees and asylum seekers while their applications are being processed. And yet asylum seekers cannot access the National Health System(GESY), despite the fact that when they are employed, contributions to GESY are automatically deducted from their salaries. Education is mandatory for everyone under the age of 15 years, regardless of legal status or lack thereof, as outlined in the Guide to Education in Cyprus available at the Ministry of Education website. 88 The Migrant Integration Policy Index(MIPEX) points out that integration in Cyprus is categorised as‘immigration without integration’, since the policies on the island do not reflect the reality; in fact, for the year 2020 Cyprus scored a mere 41 out of 100 points. 89 This has not really changed over the last five years. Under the supervision of the Ministry of Interior, a consortium was assigned through EU funding to develop a new Strategic Integration Plan. This was put off until 2023, as there were suggestions that the plan was being revised. 90 Finally, in March 2024 the new strategic integration plan, which includes a 50-point action plan, was unveiled. 91 Nevertheless, the plan is not available to view online and implementation is still pending. Despite the various rights and protections enshrined in national and European law, many refugees and migrants remain at the margins of society in Cyprus, regardless of the length if time they have been in the country. Naturalisation is also a big issue for many refugees and migrants who wish to apply for Cypriot nationality. The 2023 amendment to the Law on citizenship 92 significantly increased requirements, to the extent that the vast majority of international protection holders(mainly Syrians) do not qualify. Among other changes are the additions: having a good character(must not show disrespect for that constitute ones good character include among other things, the applicant has not showed any lack of respect towards the Republic, has not entered through an illegal point; has not behaved in any way that constitutes acceptance of the illegal administration of the areas not controlled by the Republic. 93 ROLE OF THE EU SCRIPT IN DEVELOPING RESILIEANCE AND CAPACITY IN CYPRUS On an EU level, and despite the clear transition towards a more conservative EU parliament and policies over the past 5 88 Οδηγός Υποδοχής στην Κυπριακή Εκπαίδευση, Παιδαγωγικό Ινστιτούτο, Υπουργείο Παιδείας και Πολιτισμού https://www.moec. gov.cy/odigos-ekpaidefsis/documents/greek_odigos_ipodoxis.pdf 89 Governance of migrant integration in Cyprus( 2024), European Commission https://migrant-integration.ec.europa.eu/country-governance/governance-migrant-integration-cyprus_en 90 Drousiotou, C.& Mathioudakis M.(2024), Asylum Information Database: Cyprus Country Report-2023 Update https://asylumineurope. org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/AIDA-CY_2023-Update.pdf 91 Charalambous S.( 2024), Cyprus: New action plan for migrant integration, European Commission, https://migrant-integration.ec.europa.eu/news/cyprus-new-action-plan-migrant-integration_en 92 Civil Registry Law – Amendment of 2023 93 Drousiotou, C.& Mathioudakis, M.(2024) 14

years, the European Union continues to play a significant role in developing Cyprus’s resilience and capacity to manage population movements. Despite criticisms and feedback from civil society across Europe, in April 2024 the EU parliament adopted the new Pact for Migration and Asylum that aims to provide a roadmap for member states dealing with migrant issues. In addition to its revision of the current system, the EU has pledged a significant investment in terms of capacity, finances and infrastructure. One such example is the financial support given to Cyprus to develop and improve its infrastructure, migrant access to healthcare and education, as well as extra personnel, such as that of EUAA and Frontex, to assist in migrant related issues. This aid will strengthen the capacities of local staff and reinforce the administrative and operational capabilities of involved local agencies. The EU has established various solidarity mechanisms, such as relocation and return schemes, that aim to share responsibility for refugees across member states to alleviate the pressure on countries that receive disproportionally high numbers. However, it is important to note that there is much justified criticism of the pact from civil society and other actors. As ECRE Director, Catherine Woollard, has noted,“all these decisions collectively reflect an underlying strategy of limiting access to protection for refugees in Europe, which is embodied in the reforms in multiple ways.” 94 This resilience script also includes action plans and strategies promoting refugee and migrant integration and inclusion. These focus on the fundamental areas of access to education, employment and social support, and aim to develop self-resilience of the migrant and refugee communities, while contributing to the wider society. The plan has an in-built flexibility and adaptability in order to respond to both an ever-changing social environment and unforeseen challenges (e.g., COVID-19). Furthermore, the EU funding available to the civil society reinforces the collaboration between state and non-state actors on the ground, as well as the capacity of many NGOs working in the field to support migrants and refugees in various areas. As an EU member state, Cyprus should make every effort to adopt these resilience scripts. The implementation seems selective, following the hard lines easier than developing scripts that focus on resilience, inclusion and integration. In Cyprus most efforts are made by civil society organisations with financial support from international organisations and EU funding programs. The various policies and initiatives taken to support the integration of migrants and refugees, including in areas such as language, learning, education, employment and psychosocial support fall short of actual needs and lack continuity and long-term planning. FRIEDRICH-EBERT-STIFTUNG – COUNTRY REPORT: CYPRUS 94 Woollard, C.(2024), Editorial: All Pact-ed up and ready to go: EU asylum law reforms, ECRE https://ecre.org/editorial-all-pact-ed-up-andready-to-go-eu-asylum-law-reforms/ 15

CONCLUSION Despite its potential to play an important role in the current migration situation, Cyprus currently does not meet ongoing regional needs. The island’s internal politics, as well as the growing EU narrative aimed to protect its borders, have prevented Cyprus from taking a more decisive role. The country’s migratory and integration policies need to be updated, to not only reflect current and future needs internally(i.e., labour force shortages, etc.) but also to be able to respond to developments in the region. In the wider framework, Cyprus needs to uphold its international obligations and establish legal migratory pathways to ensure the safety, protection and human rights of those in need. Conclusion 16

FRIEDRICH-EBERT-STIFTUNG – COUNTRY REPORT: CYPRUS ABOUT THE AUTHOR IMPRINT Annagrace Messa has over 12 years of experience working in civil society in Cyprus, the majority of which as a practitioner in the field of Asylum and Migration. Focusing primarily on the integration of refugees in Cyprus, Messa has also been working as an Advocacy and Case officer, as well as Researcher and Project Manager. Currently, Messa is involved in the Asylum/Migration field, and civil society in general, as a consultant and a volunteer. Published by: Friedrich-Ebert-Foundation| Competence Center MENA Peace& Security Cyprus Branch 20 Stasandrou, Apt. 401 1060 Nicosia Cyprus Email: peace.mena@fes.de Responsible for content and editing: Hubert Faustmann| Director Contact/Order: PRIO: Guido Bonino, Center Administrator guido@prio.org Issam Fares Institute: Yara Mourad, Assistant Director& Refugees Program Manager ym14@aub.edu.lb ELIAMEP: Dr. Angeliki Dimitriadi adimitriadi@eliamep.gr FES Cyprus: Prof. Dr. Hubert Faustmann, Director hubert.faustmann@fes.de LAYOUT: Erifili Arapoglou- enArte Commercial use of media published by the FES is not permitted without the consent of the FES. Publications by the FES may not be used for electioneering purposes. ©2025 The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung or of the organizations for which the authors work. 17 978-9925-8195-2-2

COUNTRY REPORT: CYPRUS Cyprus, an island with a vast migratory history, situated at the crossroads of three continents, currently struggling with keeping up with the migratory flows. Deterrence efforts applied for years, have not yielded the envisioned results, yet the efforts seem to continue towards this end, reinforced by an EU shift in policy. Developing scripts enshrined in resilience, inclusion and integration greatly lack in momentum and will from the authorities, despite the growing needs and the changing demographics on the island. Cyprus seems to be at crossroads again, this time between being a modern country that not only is in line international obligations but also one responds to the current and future challenges, and one that is remaining in the past with a narrow-minded and outdated view of migration.