The Minister of Migration and Asylum, Thanos Plevris, highlighted the reduction in migration flows during the first five months of 2026 following a meeting held in Crete.

According to Mr. Plevris, migration flows have fallen by more than 30% compared to 2025, while on the Eastern Aegean islands the reduction exceeds 65%. However, he noted that the main challenge this summer is expected to be the increase in migration flows from Libya towards Crete and how these arrivals will be managed.

“Migration flows during the first five months of 2026 have decreased compared to 2025. This reduction exceeds 30%, while on the Eastern Aegean islands it surpasses 65%. It appears that the main issue in migration management this summer will concern Libya and the flows that may head towards Crete.

At present, these flows remain at the same level as in 2025, although they are significantly higher than in previous years. For this reason, comprehensive planning is already underway. This planning includes stronger cooperation with both the Libyan and Egyptian authorities. We are already seeing progress in deterrence efforts, as it is crucial to prevent boats from departing in the first place. At the same time, we are working on a broader deterrence framework, both operationally and through the incentives and disincentives being applied.”

Separation facilities for migrants and refugees

Mr. Plevris explained that, despite prevention efforts, migration flows will continue and Greece must be prepared to manage them effectively.

“The management of these flows can be supported by increasing the overall capacity of reception structures across the country. However, there must also be two dedicated facilities in Crete — one in Chania and one in Heraklion. These will be closed facilities used to separate migrants and refugees according to their profile upon arrival, should arrivals occur in Crete.

Individuals identified as migrants will be transferred to closed structures to begin deportation procedures, while those with refugee profiles will be transferred to open structures to complete the asylum process.”

Concerns over the Malades site

According to the minister, a facility in Chania has already been identified and is operating successfully as a closed structure without causing disruption to the local community.

“In Heraklion, the Ministry has examined several possible locations and identified a site that meets the necessary requirements without placing a burden on local residents, since the structure will operate as a closed facility. In addition, compensatory measures are planned to support and upgrade the surrounding area.

The site currently under consideration is the cooperative area in Malades, as I informed both the Regional Governor and the Mayor. However, because we understand there are strong concerns, discussions have already taken place with local authorities, during which objections and alternative proposals were presented.

Further discussions will continue with Members of Parliament who wish to participate. The Ministry is willing to examine every possible option in order to find a suitable site that meets operational needs without creating problems for the local community. We have already evaluated several locations and are open to discussing additional proposals.”

Mr. Plevris stressed that the creation of these facilities is essential.

“The key issue is that space must be made available. If alternative proposals are submitted, we are prepared to examine them. Discussions with local government authorities have been constructive, and I hope the same will apply in discussions with MPs.

It is crucial to understand that in order to both prevent migration flows and manage those who arrive, these two facilities are necessary — one in Chania and one in Heraklion.”

He also emphasized that transportation arrangements have been organized by the Ministry to ensure that Crete is not burdened during the peak tourist season.

“We fully understand the need to support the island, just as support has been provided to other islands facing migration pressure in the past. But this support requires reducing migration flows and ensuring that those who arrive are managed in closed facilities so that local communities are not affected.

All of this can be achieved without burdening local residents, through immediate and effective management, exactly as we had committed and as local authorities requested last year.”

“I am not optimistic that we will see the same reductions as in the Eastern Aegean”

Concluding his remarks, Mr. Plevris stated:

“All planning is ongoing. We hope that the measures we have taken will reduce migration flows. However, I am not optimistic that this summer we will see the same reductions that we have achieved in the Eastern Aegean, although that remains our short-term goal.

Eventually, migration flows from Libya must no longer be a source of concern. We are working intensively towards that objective. Previously, much of the burden fell on local government authorities, but now the Ministry intends to assume a greater share of responsibility.

Our priority is to limit migration flows and ensure that, when arrivals do occur, they do not create problems either for Greece in general or for Crete in particular, especially during the summer tourist season.”