Greece‘s Minister of Migration and Asylum Makis Voridis addressed the issue of migration, reporting a significant decrease in arrivals for the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, during a visit to the north Aegean island of Chios on Monday, May 5, to commemorate the victims of the 1822 massacre.
“The government’s migration policy, which is already delivering results, focuses on reducing flows,” Voridis said. “That’s why, in the first three months of 2025, we’ve recorded a 27% drop in arrivals compared to the same period last year.”
Voridis emphasized that since taking over the ministry a month and a half ago, he has already implemented a strategy aimed at reducing the number of people residing in migrant facilities. This policy, he noted, is bearing fruit, with a 12.9% average reduction in the number of operating structures.
“This policy remains consistent. It’s a key part of our government’s agenda and we will continue to pursue it,” he added.
Reiterating a central government priority, the minister stressed the importance of increasing returns of individuals not eligible for asylum. He also underscored the need for safe and secure conditions in migrant facilities.
“It’s crucial that these structures, while they remain in operation, provide safety—for both residents and local citizens. And of course, the local communities that feel the pressure from migration flows will continue to be supported by our government, mainly through the Solidarity Fund mechanism,” he stated.
On the sidelines of the commemorative events, Voridis visited the Closed Controlled Access Facility (VIAL) on the island, where he held discussions with administrative staff and was briefed in detail on the site’s operations and ongoing challenges. He also met with representatives from the Chalkeios (Chalkios) community.
Later in the day, the minister visited Chios Town Hall for a meeting with Mayor Ioannis Malafis.
