2015 European migrant crisis

Migrant crisis 2015 map.png Map showing the main routes of the 2015 European migrant crisis

The 2015 European migrant crisis was a period marked by high numbers of people arriving in the European Union (EU) from across the Mediterranean Sea and overland through Southeast Europe. This influx was primarily driven by the Syrian Civil War, but also included people fleeing conflict and poverty in countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan, and Eritrea.

Background

The crisis was precipitated by a combination of factors, including ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Africa, economic instability, and the failure of the EU's Dublin Regulation to effectively manage asylum applications. The Arab Spring and subsequent conflicts, particularly the Syrian Civil War, led to massive displacement of people.

Routes and Methods

Migrants and refugees used several routes to reach Europe. The most common included the Central Mediterranean route from Libya to Italy, the Eastern Mediterranean route from Turkey to Greece, and the Western Balkan route through countries like Macedonia and Serbia. Many traveled in overcrowded and unsafe boats, leading to numerous tragedies at sea.

European Response

The response to the crisis varied across Europe. Some countries, like Germany and Sweden, adopted more open policies, accepting large numbers of refugees. Others, such as Hungary, took a more restrictive approach, building fences and tightening border controls. The crisis highlighted divisions within the EU regarding migration policy and burden-sharing.

Impact

The crisis had significant political, social, and economic impacts. It strained the resources of frontline countries like Greece and Italy, led to a rise in anti-immigrant sentiment and political movements across Europe, and prompted debates over the EU's Schengen Area and Common European Asylum System.

International and Humanitarian Response

International organizations, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and various NGOs, played crucial roles in providing aid and advocating for the rights of migrants and refugees. The crisis also prompted discussions on the need for a more coordinated global response to migration and displacement.

Also see

• Syrian Civil War
• Dublin Regulation
• Schengen Area
• Mediterranean Sea migrant crossings
• Common European Asylum System