The Refugee Crisis is one of the most topical issues mainly at a European but also at a global level. The numbers of Syrian refugees reach the 11 million (7 million within Syria and 4 million outside Syria). This number is expected to increase significantly, because of the escalating crisis in Syria.
Refugee Crisis is a humanitarian, political, social and economic challenge for Europe, since it has caused breaches in the foundations of the European Integration. The greatest achievement of Europe, that is, the open borders and free movement, as well as, the Common European Asylum System, are now been questioned.
Europe should aim, through agreed mechanisms, to offer solidarity to refugees who flee their homes because of the horror of war, but also to those Member States that accept the largest pressures. One example is the recent Agreement on the establishment of a relocation mechanism, within the European Union, of applicants for international protection from Greece and Italy which receive the largest pressure.
At the same time, there is an evident need for immediate housing of refugees on the move within the European territory, as well as, ensuring their humane treatment. Cyprus has shown in practice through the recent rescues of refugees within the Cypriot territorial waters that is ready to fully respond in dealing with the refugee crisis, within the framework of its commitments deriving from the acquis.
Rescue 09/11/2016 - Photos from the Temporary Accommodation Centre in Kokkinotrimithia ('Pournara')
