Human Rights Watch has accused Lebanon and Cyprus of violating the principle of 'non-refoulement' by forcibly pushing back Syrian refugees to Syria. The Lebanese Armed Forces are implicated in these pushbacks, while Cyprus is pushing refugees back to Lebanon.
The EU is funding Lebanon and the ICMPD without adequate controls, despite closely monitoring funded interventions according to the European Commission. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen promises to continue developing strategic relations for migration and security, including a 'New Pact for the Mediterranean'.
These actions by Lebanon and Cyprus violate international human rights obligations and endanger the lives of Syrian refugees. The situation is further exacerbated by the economic crisis in Lebanon, forcing many to resort to illegal migration.
Non-governmental organizations are calling for independent monitoring and better reception conditions for refugees in Cyprus. The Frontex director denies that NGOs in the Mediterranean act as a pull factor for migration.
However, leaked documents contradict this statement, and allegations have been made against the former Frontex chief for covering up illegal pushbacks by Greek police in the Aegean Sea. While irregular crossings have decreased in some regions, they have increased in the Canary Islands and Belarus.
