Greece Tightens Stance on Rejected Asylum Seekers with Stricter Legislation

Greece is taking significant steps to bolster its immigration policies, introducing tougher measures against rejected asylum seekers. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced new legislation designed to impose stricter penalties on those who enter or remain illegally in the country after their asylum applications are denied.

These measures aim to streamline the return process of migrants to their home countries by employing a more efficient and equitable system requiring parliamentary approval before enactment. Despite a reduction in migrant arrivals, the Greek government remains resolute in addressing the politically delicate issue of migration.

In response to recent increases in sea arrivals from Libya, the European Union has proposed amendments facilitating the deportation of rejected asylum seekers to third countries considered safe by the bloc, a move aimed at relieving pressure on Greece's asylum systems.

(With inputs from agencies.)