A senior human rights official urges Cyprus to allow 35 stranded asylum seekers in a U.N. buffer zone to apply for asylum, citing their poor living conditions. Cyprus has faced criticism for its treatment of migrants, while efforts to control illegal crossings continue amidst a complex historical backdrop. President Christodoulides asserted the government’s commitment to resolution and compliance with international laws.
The Council of Europe’s human rights chief, Michael O’Flaherty, has called on Cyprus to allow a group of approximately 35 asylum seekers stuck in a U.N. buffer zone to apply for asylum. They have been living in tents for months, particularly suffering from insufficient access to essential items for children. These migrants hail from various countries, including Syria and Iran, and have endured harsh living conditions that threaten their mental and physical health. O’Flaherty acknowledged the challenges Cyprus faces in managing migration flows but stressed that this shouldn’t excuse violating international law concerning asylum seekers. He noted similar calls from the U.N. refugee agency urging Cyprus to let these migrants seek protection. Crossings from the north have diminished significantly due to Cyprus’ stringent measures aimed at controlling migration. After a Turkish invasion in 1974, the buffer zone was placed under U.N. control following a ceasefire, and Cyprus has held firm against turning this area into a migration route. Cyprus had previously paused asylum applications for Syrians after resettling a notable number, insisting it wouldn’t allow the buffer zone to be exploited by human smugglers moving migrants into the south. In response, President Nikos Christodoulides reaffirmed Cyprus’s commitment to dismantling smuggling networks and stressed that all incoming migrants possess Turkish residency permits. He declared that the government will provide assistance to those stranded and aims to resolve the situation shortly, reiterating that all actions are compliant with international obligations. Moreover, the president defended maritime patrols designed to intercept migrant boats, vehemently denying allegations of improper returns at sea. He’d also faced criticism from the European Court of Human Rights for previous actions against migrants, emphasizing the need for compliance with the court’s decisions regarding asylum rights. O’Flaherty’s correspondence implores Cyprus to adhere to human rights standards, advocating for independent investigations into the treatment of migrants.
The situation in Cyprus stems from the island’s complex history involving ethnic divisions and migration issues. After the split caused by a Turkish invasion in 1974, a buffer zone was created under U.N. oversight, which has become a focal point for migrants seeking asylum. Cyprus has attempted to tighten border controls and manage the influx of migrants, leading to ongoing human rights concerns and appeals for better treatment of asylum seekers stuck in precarious conditions.
The plight of stranded asylum seekers in Cyprus’ U.N. buffer zone highlights essential human rights issues and the need for effective asylum procedures. O’Flaherty’s letter underscores the importance of adhering to international obligations in responding to immigration challenges. With ongoing control measures and a commitment from the government, there’s hope for resolving the situation while balancing the need to combat illegal fronts without neglecting vulnerable populations.
Original Source: apnews.com
