Strict Measures for Illegal Immigrants: Boridi’s New Policies and Political Tensions in Greece

When Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis appointed Makis Voridis as the Minister of Migration and Asylum, it was a clear signal that migration policy would become stricter. In his first statements, Voridis emphasized his strong ideological views on handling illegal immigration. The government aims to appeal to its conservative electorate, which accounts for nearly 20% of its voters. During a recent cabinet meeting, Voridis presented a draft bill aimed at tightening return procedures. The proposed measures include imprisonment of up to three years or voluntary deportation with a small financial incentive. Key aspects of the new law involve mandatory electronic monitoring bracelets for illegal immigrants awaiting deportation and a ban on re-entering Greece for ten years. Meanwhile, political tensions are rising over the referral of former Transport Minister Karamanlis to pre-trial investigation. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis stated that they will fulfill their duty but hinted that opposition parties must also take responsibility. SYRIZA and other opposition parties have requested an investigation into Prime Minister Mitsotakis himself. Taxi drivers are also protesting, demanding better regulations, while Deputy Minister Kyranakis focuses on improving public transport infrastructure by prioritizing electric taxis and bus lanes.