European Commission proposes emergency migration framework amid Crete arrivals

The European Commission is developing a new European Emergency Response Framework to provide member states with greater flexibility in managing borders, asylum procedures, and returns during sudden or mass irregular arrivals. In a letter to EU leaders, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen detailed the framework, which aims to address situations where existing rules are insufficient to maintain public order and internal security.

In Greece, Migration and Asylum Minister Thanos Plevris reported increased migratory pressure on Crete, attributing the surge to instability in Libya and a lack of cooperation from Libyan authorities. Plevris noted that while Aegean flows remain at historically low levels, migrants—specifically citizens from Bangladesh traveling via Gulf countries—are arriving in Crete. He explained that individuals unlikely to receive asylum are being moved to closed facilities, while those with potential asylum claims are sent to open structures. The Greek government has previously called for a mechanism that could allow for the temporary suspension of asylum procedures under exceptional circumstances.

Additionally, the Commission announced €25 million in funding for actions in Eastern Libya and is promoting the creation of return hubs in third countries, a process in which Greece is expected to participate.