Government outlines firm approach on migration and integration
Cyprus migration policy is centred on stricter enforcement for offenders alongside structured integration measures, Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection Nicholas Ioannidis said on Tuesday.
Speaking on Sigma TV’s programme Mesimeri kai Kati, Ioannidis outlined the government’s key policy pillars on migration and the integration of foreign nationals, stressing the need to address migrant overconcentration in specific areas while safeguarding public order.
First National Integration Strategy underway
Ioannidis said the concentration of migrants in certain communities is one of the most critical aspects of the migration and refugee issue. To address this, the Republic of Cyprus is preparing its first National Integration Strategy.
The strategy aims to support people who have the legal right to remain in Cyprus so they can integrate smoothly into society. He stressed that integration does not mean assimilation, but active and functional participation in the social fabric.
Language learning and willingness to integrate
According to the deputy minister, the strategy’s core pillars include learning the Greek language, skills development, and familiarisation with Cyprus’s way of life and political system.
At the same time, he made clear that integration also depends on the willingness of foreign nationals themselves. In cases where individuals refuse to integrate or display delinquent behaviour despite the opportunities provided, deportation and repatriation measures are activated in addition to any criminal penalties.
Withdrawal of protection status for offenders
Ioannidis highlighted the ability to revoke international or subsidiary protection status from foreign nationals who commit offences, describing it as a tool that until recently did not exist.
He noted that the relevant bill had remained before parliament for about a year and was only passed in December, now allowing authorities to proceed with such actions in full compliance with EU and international law.
The deputy minister stressed that this measure is explicitly provided for in both EU directives and the 1951 Geneva Convention, which allows for the refusal or withdrawal of protection status from individuals who pose a threat to public order and security.
Repatriations already under way
He added that, in cooperation with the Ministry of Justice and the Police, authorities are selecting foreign nationals who have been convicted – excluding serious crimes such as homicide, drugs or rape – and who either express a wish to return voluntarily or lose their protection status and are repatriated.
This process, he said, has already begun and will continue.
Strategy to reach Cabinet this month
Regarding the National Integration Strategy, Ioannidis said it will be submitted to the Cabinet for approval before the end of the month.
Implementation will fall under the supervision of the Deputy Ministry of Migration, with the involvement of other ministries, international organisations and NGOs. He referred specifically to cooperation with the International Organization for Migration and the UNHCR, as well as the role of local authorities.
He acknowledged that previous actions lacked sufficient cohesion and coordination.
Avoiding ghettos and matching labour needs
On the issue of “ghettoisation”, Ioannidis said the goal is not simply geographical dispersal, but preventing friction with local communities and addressing genuine labour market needs.
Coordination is under way with the Ministry of Labour to identify professions and areas facing labour shortages, alongside incentives for migrants to settle where workers are needed.
International law must be respected
Finally, the deputy minister referred to the international dimension, stressing that international law is not a tool used selectively but a framework of rules that states must respect.
He noted that violations do not negate its existence or validity, comparing it to criminal law, which continues to apply even when breached.
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