Transformation of the migration policy of Greece in 2019-2021

Abstract

The aim of the article is to present a series of measures taken by Greece that focused on reducing migratory pressures and to demonstrate that these measures resulted in fewer irregular migrants reaching the Greek coast. This hypothesis is tested by analyzing individual solutions introduced by the government of Kiriakos Mitsotakis in the period 2019-2021, partially taking into account 2022. The conclusions indicate that the state can effectively reduce the migratory pressure and irregular inflow of migrants by undertaking specific legislative actions and active border protection. The effects of the Greek government’s actions were already visible in 2020, and their proof was not only the lower number of migrants, but also the redirection of the migration route towards Italy and Cyprus. The article contributes to research on contemporary, irregular migration to the European Union and indicates the possibilities that the country of first entry has at its disposal in order to reduce high migratory pressure.