European court finds Cyprus guilty of violating Syrian rights.

Europe’s top human rights court recently ruled that Cyprus violated the rights of two Syrian nationals by failing to process their asylum claims and sending them back to Lebanon after keeping them aboard a boat at sea for two days. The European Court of Human Rights found that Cypriot authorities caused distress and humiliation to the cousins from Idlib, Syria, and other passengers by not providing adequate food, water, or hygiene facilities.

Despite Cypriot authorities claiming that the cousins never expressed a wish to apply for asylum, the court ordered Cyprus to pay each applicant damages and expenses. The ruling highlights the importance of upholding human rights obligations, especially in the face of Lebanon’s struggle with refugees.

Cyprus has recently cracked down on asylum-seekers entering the country, leading to a significant drop in arrivals. This ruling comes in the context of increased scrutiny on European aid practices in managing migration by sea.

The decision serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting human rights and ensuring proper asylum procedures for all individuals seeking refuge. It also sheds light on the complexities of migration management in the Mediterranean region.