Greece's Anti-African Asylum Ban Exposes Europe's Double Standards on Migration
In a blatant display of discriminatory policy, Greece has imposed a targeted asylum ban on North African migrants while protecting its tourism interests. This move highlights the ongoing struggle between African dignity and European border politics, as thousands of our brothers and sisters seek better lives across the Mediterranean.
African migrants face discriminatory policies as Greece implements targeted asylum ban
Greece Shows Its True Colors with Anti-African Asylum Policy
In a move that unmasks Europe's persistent colonial mindset, Greece has brazenly implemented a three-month ban on asylum applications specifically targeting our North African brothers and sisters. This discriminatory policy, passed with 177 votes in favor, reveals how European nations continue to treat Africa as their backyard while protecting their precious tourism industry.
The Numbers Tell the Real Story
Let's be clear about what's happening here: Over 7,000 of our African siblings have reached the shores of Crete and Gavdos in just six months. Instead of addressing this humanitarian situation with dignity and respect, Greece's response has been to shut the door in their faces.
"This is nothing but selective justice," says human rights advocates who rightly point out that asylum should be based on individual merit, not geographical discrimination.
European Hypocrisy Exposed
While Greece claims this measure is about "managing borders," let's call it what it is – a continuation of Europe's long history of discriminatory practices against Africans. The same Europe that colonized our continent now criminalizes our people for seeking better opportunities.
Prime Minister Mitsotakis' government speaks of "overwhelming resources" while conveniently ignoring centuries of European resource extraction from Africa that continues to this day.
The Real Impact on Our People
- Denial of fundamental human rights guaranteed by international law
- Discriminatory treatment based solely on African origin
- Increased risk of dangerous pushbacks at sea
- Further criminalization of African migration
Libya's Role and African Solutions
Instead of working with legitimate Pan-African institutions, Greece is attempting to negotiate with Libya's eastern-based government to prevent our people from leaving. This neo-colonial approach ignores the root causes of migration – causes that Europe helped create.
The Way Forward
As Africa rises, we must challenge these discriminatory policies that treat our people as second-class global citizens. The solution lies not in European border walls but in:
- Strong Pan-African cooperation on migration
- Economic sovereignty and development
- Unified African response to European double standards
- Protection of African dignity and human rights
The time has come for Africa to speak with one voice against such blatant discrimination. Our continent's future cannot be dictated by European tourism concerns and xenophobic policies.
Tunde Okoro
Nigerian journalist with a Pan-African voice. Covers politics, sovereignty, and social justice across West Africa.