Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has called on the European Union to revisit its migrant return policy, urging for a more effective system that ensures migrants are sent back to their countries of origin, rather than to their point of entry. Speaking ahead of the European Council summit in Brussels, Mitsotakis highlighted that migration would be a key topic on the agenda, with a need to improve the current strategy.
Mitsotakis expressed Greece’s concerns about the existing regulations, which often result in migrants being returned to Greece, the country of entry for many asylum seekers. He stated that Athens plans to propose new approaches at the summit aimed at enhancing the efficiency of returns for those not eligible for asylum. “What is missing from our European strategy is an effective returns policy,” Mitsotakis stressed, underlining the importance of addressing this gap in the EU’s efforts.
For the past five years, Greece has been at the forefront of implementing strict but fair measures to manage illegal migration, Mitsotakis noted. He also pointed out that both the European Council and the European Commission have gradually aligned themselves with Greece’s stance on the issue, reflecting a growing consensus in Brussels for tougher migration policies.
In addition to these proposed changes, the Greek PM criticized the inadequate implementation of the 2016 EU-Turkey agreement, which was designed to facilitate the return of migrants from Greece to Turkey, a major transit point for those traveling from the Middle East, Asia, and North Africa. Mitsotakis reminded EU leaders that Turkey continues to receive substantial financial support from the EU as part of this agreement, but returns to Turkey remain limited.
Mitsotakis’ comments reflect broader concerns in Greece, a frontline country in the migration crisis, where large numbers of migrants and refugees arrive each year. The Greek government has been pushing for greater EU support and cooperation to manage these challenges, including better coordination on return policies.
As EU leaders gather in Brussels, migration remains a pressing issue for the bloc, with many countries grappling with the political, social, and economic impacts of irregular migration. Mitsotakis’ call for a stronger returns policy adds to the ongoing debate, as the EU looks for long-term solutions to manage migration flows more effectively.