EU Asylum Applications Surge to Highest Level Since 2015-16 Crisis

Over 1.14 million people sought asylum in the EU in 2023, marking a significant increase amid geopolitical instability.

More than 1.14 million individuals applied for asylum in the EU in 2023, the highest number since the 2015-16 refugee crisis.
Germany received the largest share of applications, with over 334,000 asylum seekers, followed by France, Spain, and Italy.
Syrians and Afghans were the top nationalities among applicants, with a notable rise in applications from Turkish citizens.
The EU's asylum system faces pressure as it also accommodates 4.4 million Ukrainians under temporary protection.
A major overhaul of the EU's asylum and migration laws was agreed upon in December, aiming for faster processing and a 'solidarity mechanism' among member states.