Syrians living in Cyprus have called on the government to partially lift its freeze on asylum applications, highlighting cases dating back to 2019 remain unprocessed while other nationalities’ applications are handled within three months.
In an open letter to the Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Migration, the group called the current situation “blatant discrimination” against Syrians who have lived and worked in Cyprus for years, contributing to social security and health insurance systems.
The freeze, implemented in April 2024, has created significant obstacles for Syrian residents, preventing them from obtaining driving licences, accessing healthcare services, and securing adequate housing, the group said.
While over 1,000 Syrians have withdrawn their applications for international protection or subsidiary protection status since the fall of the Assad regime, the group emphasised that Syria remains unsafe with unstable political conditions.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) stated on December 10, 2024, that while forced deportations were not being considered, repatriation decisions should be voluntary rather than pressure-driven.
The group proposed converting subsidiary protection status to third-country worker status for those meeting specific criteria, noting many Syrians work in crucial economic sectors such as construction and renewable energy.
“We have gained significant professional experience. Converting our current status to third-country worker status would encourage employers to invest in existing human resources,” the letter stated.
The group requested a meeting with government officials to discuss their proposals further.
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