Nicosia: More than 3,000 applicants seeking international protection have been relocated from Cyprus to nine European Union member states since 2022 under the European Union’s Voluntary Solidarity Mechanism (VSM). This was revealed by the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection and the Asylum Service.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Deputy Ministry and the Asylum Service reported that Cyprus has achieved the highest number of relocations among the five Mediterranean frontline countries involved in the Mechanism, which includes Greece, Italy, Malta, and Spain. From August 2022 to September 17, 2025, a total of 3,006 relocations occurred, with 2,913 of them taking place from March 2023 onwards.
The relocations were conducted in coordination with the European Commission and supported by the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The EUAA organized information sessions to ensure applicants were fully informed and consented to participate in the relocation program. The process included individuals with special needs, vulnerable persons, families, and unaccompanied children.
The Voluntary Solidarity Mechanism aims to assist frontline member states that are disproportionately affected by migratory flows. It provides support through direct relocations or financial contributions from other member states. The relocation activities are fully funded by the European Union’s Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund.
The press release emphasized the collaboration between the Republic of Cyprus and its European and international partners, highlighting the importance of European solidarity in decongesting reception facilities and protecting the rights of applicants for international protection. It also stated that Cyprus will continue to manage migration with determination and transparency, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring safe and legal procedures for those in need of protection.