The New Arab (TNA) has recently completed a thorough investigation into the Voluntary Return Program in Cyprus, a highly publicized initiative aimed at facilitating the safe and organized return of migrants to their home countries.
Despite the program’s stated goals of promoting a dignified return for individuals, TNA’s findings reveal a starkly different reality. The Cypriot Ministry of Interior has been found to be pressuring individuals into participating in the program through deceptive and coercive tactics, in direct violation of the European Convention on Human Rights.
In particular, Syrian asylum seekers have been subjected to the denial of access to asylum, unlawful detention in inhumane conditions, and baseless accusations of serious crimes. These actions not only go against Cyprus’ obligations under international law, but also raise concerns for the more than one million Syrian refugees currently residing in Europe.
Despite these disturbing revelations, the European Commission (EC) and Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, continue to provide financial and operational support for the program. In fact, the EC has even praised the Cypriot model as a potential example for other countries to follow.
For further information on TNA’s investigation, please refer to the full report, which can be accessed here.
For media inquiries, please contact Investigative Editor Andrea Glioti at andrea.glioti@newarab.com.
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