The Friedrich-Ebert-Foundation Cyprus cordially invites you to a seminar on
Asylum and Migration Challenges for Europe & Cyprus
On the occasion of the launch and presentation of the FES-Report
Cyprus as a New Refugee “Hotspot” in Europe?
Challenges for a Divided Country
on Thursday, 20 February 2020, 18.30-21.00
Location: Fulbright Center Cyprus, UN Buffer Zone next to Ledra Palace
This report examines the refugee and migration issue in Cyprus. The text focuses on the recent increase in the number of refugees, an analysis of the country’s reception conditions, and the question of whether Cyprus is becoming – in relative terms – an important route for migration to and asylum in Europe. From a human rights perspective, the situation is highly problematic. Many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the UNHCR have criticised current practices in Cyprus for causing undue panic, fear and a climate of xenophobia. A reform of the asylum and migration model is long overdue.
Program
18.15 – 18.30 Registration
18.30 – 18.45 Welcome and introduction
Hubert Faustmann, Director of Friedrich-Ebert-Foundation Cyprus
Katja Saha, Head of UNHCR Cyprus
18.45 – 19.05 “The EU Refugee Policy in the New Legislative Term – What to expect?”, Timo Rinke, FES Project Director (Flight, Migration, Integration in Europe)
19.05 – 19.20 Presentation of the FES Report, Nicos Trimikliniotis, Professor of Sociology & Centre for Fundamental Rights, University of Nicosia
19.20 – 19.50 Different perspectives
- Protection & Status Determination, Olga Komiti, Legal Expert, UNCHR
- An Integration Perspective, Corina Droussiotou, Director, Cyprus Refugee Council
- A Lesbos Perspective, Stratos Georgoulas, Professor, Univers
ity of the Aegean, Lesbos
19.50 – 20.00 Response by the Author
20.00 – 21.00 Discussion and Reception
The event is open to the public and will be held in English