EU asylum requests drop to 5-year low

The European Union's asylum agency reported a five-year low in asylum applications for the first half of 2026, with 332,000 requests filed across the bloc and its partners Switzerland and Norway. This figure represents a 17% decrease compared to the same period in 2025, marking the lowest such number since 2021. The EU Agency for Asylum (EUAA) cited two primary factors contributing to the decline: the political transition in Syria, resulting in fewer applications from Syrian nationals, and the EU's cooperative efforts with countries of origin and transit.

Notably, the agency noted that the war in the Middle East did not lead to an anticipated rise in applications from affected countries. Afghan applicants comprised the largest group, with 39,000 requests, followed by Venezuelans and Bangladeshis. However, only 23% of these applications resulted in successful protection requests. The EUAA also highlighted the impact of new rules implemented in June, which introduced expedited procedures and rapid deportations for applicants from countries with low recognition rates or deemed "safe."

France received the highest number of applications, with 69,000, followed by Italy (66,000), Spain (55,000), and Germany (55,000). Greece led in applications per capita with 23,000 requests.