Migrants and refugees in Cyprus

Cypriot Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas rejected accusations of “pushbacks” after the sinking of a migrant boat on 17 March, which left seven dead and several missing. He said Cyprus respects maritime law and international standards, denying allegations of violence and shooting of migrants. Palmas said no investigation would be opened, considering the accusations unfounded.
On 17 March, following a fatal shipwreck off Cape Greco, in international waters, seven bodies were found. According to reports, 21 people from Syria were on board the boat and only 2 of them survived. The boat was found on March 18 by the Search and Rescue Coordination Center, but none of the missing people have been located.
On 14 March, the Cypriot authorities pushed back three boats carrying around 80 Syrians, including women and children. Following this incident, these nationals were forcibly deported to Syria, the country they had fled. UNHCR then renewed its call on States to stop these practices, which they consider to be contrary to the principle of non-refoulement and international law.

Cyprus