Germany Considers Refugee Returns to Greece Amid Ongoing Dialogue

The path for returning refugees to Greece, who are already recognized in their country of first arrival (Greece) and subsequently seek asylum in Germany, is opening following a recent ruling by the Federal Administrative Court in Leipzig. The court’s decision acknowledged adequate living conditions within and outside refugee facilities in Greece. Greek Minister of Migration Makis Voridis emphasized Greece’s stance on equitable distribution and solidarity within the EU, noting that Greece may not be receptive to potential refugee returns. A representative from the German Ministry of Interior stated that the federal government welcomes the court’s decision, which determined that unmarried men capable of working and not belonging to vulnerable groups do not face inhumane conditions upon return to Greece. Consequently, asylum applications from this group can be rejected as inadmissible under German and EU law. While the duration of these processes remains uncertain, the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees will guide decisions based on the court’s ruling. Germany continues discussions with Greece regarding migration policies, though specifics remain undisclosed. In 2024, 26,540 individuals sought asylum in Germany after being recognized as refugees in Greece, with 7,470 additional applications filed by March 31, 2025.