UN Accuses Cyprus of Migrant Pushbacks Amid Buffer Zone Tensions

The UN refugee agency accused Cyprus of pushing migrants back into the UN-controlled buffer zone, hindering their asylum applications. With deteriorating conditions, some migrants have been stranded for almost three months. The Cyprus government defends its actions, citing migration pressures and legal authority, while humanitarian and legal challenges persist.

The United Nations refugee agency on Friday accused Cypriot authorities of forcibly returning dozens of migrants to a U.N.-controlled buffer zone, obstructing their asylum applications.

According to UNHCR spokeswoman Emilia Strovolidou, up to 99 asylum seekers were “pushed back” into the buffer zone between mid-May and August 8. These migrants, hailing from nations including Syria, Iran, and Afghanistan, entered the EU-member Cyprus from the Turkish Cypriot north.

The conditions of the stranded migrants, including minors and survivors of violence, have deteriorated, increasing their humanitarian needs. UN peacekeeping force spokesman Aleem Siddique condemned the pushbacks, urging Cypriot authorities to adhere to international laws. Legal actions are underway to ensure the asylum seekers can file their claims.