Switzerland and Greece are working closely to improve conditions for asylum seekers and speed up the return of migrants without protection status. During his visit to Athens, Swiss Federal Councilor Beat Jans discussed their €40 million partnership, which aims to improve the asylum process and prevent irregular migration.
This cooperation program, signed in 2022, has already launched eight projects, with €27 million allocated to support asylum, infrastructure, and integration efforts. Some of these projects focus on helping unaccompanied minor asylum seekers, while others improve procedures for vulnerable migrants. The partnership has also strengthened ties between Swiss and Greek migration authorities through study visits and discussions on migration challenges.
Overcrowding in refugee camps remains a major issue, especially on the eastern Aegean islands. Jans emphasized the need for a European-wide approach to migration management. He supports the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, which promotes solidarity, shared responsibility, and a more efficient asylum process across Europe.
Greece is pushing for more voluntary returns of migrants, but across Europe, only a small percentage of those ordered to return actually leave. Switzerland has experience in return assistance, offering incentives for voluntary returns and agreements with 68 countries to streamline repatriation. The Swiss model provides financial and vocational support to help migrants reintegrate into their home countries, a strategy they hope to share with Greece.
The war in Ukraine has also increased asylum applications in Europe. Switzerland supports rapid integration for refugees through language programs, job coaching, and partnerships with industries. These initiatives help migrants become independent while also preparing them for potential return to their home countries.
Seventeen European countries, including Switzerland, recently signed a document on migration obligations, sparking debates about possible changes to the Schengen Agreement. While Switzerland remains open to asylum seekers, Jans stresses the need for stronger return policies and flexible legal procedures to manage migration more effectively.