Greece Says Enough!
The Greek parliament has finally made a decision that will shock many and perhaps delight some. With 74 votes in favor, 42 against, and a few abstentions, an amendment was passed suspending the acceptance of asylum applications from migrants illegally arriving by sea from North Africa. Yes, you read that right – if you’re a migrant trying to cross the sea to Greece, forget about asylum until proven otherwise!
What does this mean?
Migrants arriving on Greek shores, especially from the North African route, will be returned to their countries of origin or the countries where they were first registered. Greece plans to establish special detention centers, one of which will be on Crete. This is part of the tough stance the Greek government is taking in the fight against the migration crisis.
Why now?
The number of migrants trying to enter Europe via Greece has surged in recent months. In just the first half of July, the Greek coast guard rescued hundreds of migrants near the southern islands of Gavdos and Crete. For example, on July 6, about 50 migrants were rescued near Gavdos, and on the same day, Frontex saved 96 migrants near Crete.
Greece has even deployed two frigates near Libyan territorial waters to curb the migration wave and has called on Libya for better cooperation.
What do critics say?
This move has sparked a storm of reactions. Some argue it violates human rights and that migrants will be subjected to inhumane detention conditions. Others believe Greece has finally taken responsibility and that this is necessary to protect borders and maintain stability.
What about the rest of Europe?
Europe is once again facing a migration crisis. Thousands of people arrive daily on Greek shores, fleeing wars and poverty. Amid this chaos, controversial plans have emerged, such as US President Donald Trump’s proposal to deport migrants to Serbia. Is the Balkans becoming a new buffer zone? This question increasingly worries the region.
Conclusion
Greece has had enough mercy and decided to put an end to the migration wave flooding its shores. With the new amendment, the country sends a clear message: illegal migrants from North Africa will not easily get asylum. Is this the start of a new era in European migration policy or just another problem spilling over to neighbors? Time will tell.
What do you think? Is Greece right, or is this just another step toward closing doors to people in need? Drop a comment, let your voice be heard – or at least let’s have a laugh at this never-ending migration drama!
