In 2024, asylum applications across the European Union took a significant dip, falling by around 12%. 🌍 According to the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA), just over one million initial applications were recorded across the 27 EU member nations, along with Norway and Switzerland, down from 1.14 million in 2023.
Germany was a standout performer in this decline, experiencing a 30.2% drop in asylum applications compared to last year, with 235,925 initial applications. 🇩🇪 Spain followed closely, ranking second with 165,398 applicants, while France and Italy also saw fewer new applications.
The majority of asylum seekers originated from Syria (15%), Afghanistan (8.7%), Venezuela (7.3%), and Turkiye (5.5%), reflecting broader global migration trends. 🕊️
On the other side of the spectrum, Hungary reported only 29 new asylum applications in 2024. This significant decrease comes amid ongoing tensions between Brussels and Budapest, culminating in a massive $205 million fine from the European Court of Justice (ECJ) for violating EU asylum laws by unlawfully detaining and deporting asylum seekers without proper appeals.
Migration remains a hot topic in European politics, particularly in Germany's upcoming elections. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is gaining traction with its strong anti-immigrant stance, highlighting the complex dynamics of migration and politics in the EU. 🗳️
