During the initial half of 2025, southern Crete experienced a substantial increase in migrant arrivals, intensifying the ongoing refugee crisis on the island. Data compiled by the organization “Refugee Support in the Aegean” revealed that 7,336 refugees reached Crete and Gavdos in 129 documented incidents between January and June. The majority originated from Egypt (44.7%), Sudan (28.3%), and Bangladesh (19%). The arrivals included a large number of unaccompanied minors, families with young children—mostly from Sudan—and women traveling alone who require heightened protection.
Despite the steady redirection of migration routes toward Crete and Gavdos, as indicated by similar trends in 2024, there has been no comprehensive national effort to provide for those arriving. Most new arrivals are forced to remain in temporary, makeshift shelters without even the most basic amenities. In early July, Crete experienced further increases in arrivals, resulting in hundreds of people residing outdoors in extreme heat and a marked rise in tensions throughout the island.
Local officials have documented:
- Lack of organized reception and identification services
- Absence of central government support from the Ministry of Migration and Asylum
- Protests from the Hellenic Coast Guard, which claims the Ministry has left them with duties they are not suited for
The national government’s response has included deploying naval vessels to patrol southern maritime borders and considering a temporary suspension of asylum application reviews, moves that have drawn criticism from humanitarian groups. Organizations remind authorities that forced returns, or pushbacks, remain illegal under international and European law.
Local Governments and Communities Under Strain
Mayors from Anogeia, Viannos, Archanes-Asterousia, and Gortyna warn that unless immediate state action is taken, the number of refugees could surge to 15,000 by the end of July. They describe a situation where hundreds have already arrived over recent weeks, mainly through organized smuggling networks, with the crisis affecting every aspect of local life.
Core issues highlighted by mayors include:
- Total absence of a national emergency plan
- Overwhelmed local infrastructure and services
- No financial assistance or logistical support for municipalities
Local businesses and residents are now witnessing:
- Anxiety among tourists as arrival numbers climb
- Tourists leaving beaches for safety as large groups land nearby
- Concerns over tourism industry losses in popular destinations
Dramatic scenes unfolded last night at the port of Agia Galini when about 70 residents and business owners registered their anger over the current state of the refugee crisis. Their protest aimed to halt the transfer of over 100 migrants from ships to buses for onward relocation. Thanks to the joint efforts of the mayor and the port authority, the situation was defused without further escalation.
Rescue missions remain ongoing. In recent operations south of Gavdos, the Hellenic Coast Guard saved 90 migrants who had departed from Tobruk, Libya. Three young men—a 19-year-old from Egypt and two youths from Sudan—were detained as alleged smugglers. Police investigations were launched accordingly.
Cumulative figures since the start of July paint a challenging picture:
- Over 600 migrants arrived at Agia Galini port
- New groups reported in Trei Ekklisies, Tsoutsouras, and Kaloi Limenes
- More than 1,800 migrants are now in Chania, Rethymno, and Heraklion
The main temporary shelter in Heraklion alone is currently overcrowded, with more than 300 people residing there under unsanitary conditions. All agencies involved urge the Ministry of Migration to take immediate steps, as continuing inaction may disrupt the social fabric and further undermine confidence among both residents and visitors.
Tourists considering travel to Crete during this period are advised to stay informed about the local situation, respect the severity of the ongoing refugee crisis, and follow guidance from local authorities and reputable travel agencies.
