UN figures show the number of illegal entries into the country by third country nationals increased by a massive 223.22%, while no less than 165,000 people trying to illegally enter EU territory via Mediterranean sea routes until October 2014.

According to the United Nations, the skyrocketing number of undocumented migrants sneaking across Greece’s land and sea borders is primary due to conflicts in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and North Africa.

Tragically, the number of victims who died while in their bid to enter the EU is estimated at 3,000.

A document signed by the relevant Greek alternate minister for European affairs, Nikos Hountis, highlights the role of the common European asylum system, emphasizing that Greece – which lies on the periphery of Europe and nearer to the conflicts areas – wants increased solidarity by its EU partners and a fairer burden sharing amongst member-states.