Decline in Pakistani Asylum Applications in Europe Amid Backlog and Stricter Decisions
The number of Pakistanis applying for political asylum in Europe has shown a notable decline in 2024, following a significant increase in the previous year. This shift comes after a steady rise in applications since 2020, with a record surge in 2023 that marked a turning point in the trend.
Rising Trends from 2020 to 2023
From 2020 onward, the number of asylum applications from Pakistanis began to climb steadily. By April 2022, over 25,000 applications had already been submitted, reflecting a sharp increase compared to the numbers recorded in 2020 and 2021. The upward trend continued into 2023, where the total reached an impressive 30,440 applications for international protection. This marked a peak in the volume of asylum seekers from Pakistan, highlighting growing concerns about safety and stability in the country.
A Shift in 2024
However, the momentum began to slow down in 2024. Between October 2023 and October 2024, approximately 28,000 Pakistani nationals filed asylum claims. This represents a clear decrease compared to the monthly average of 3,400 in 2023, which dropped to just 1,900 per month by October 2024. The decline raises questions about the factors influencing this change, including potential shifts in policies, economic conditions, or improved security situations in Pakistan.
Popular Destinations Remain Consistent
Despite the overall decline, certain European countries continue to be the primary destinations for Pakistani asylum seekers. Italy remains the most sought-after country, followed closely by France, Greece, and Germany. These nations have historically been key entry points for migrants and asylum seekers from South Asia, often due to their proximity and established immigration systems.
Challenges in Processing Asylum Cases
While the number of applications has decreased, the processing of these cases has remained slow. Over the past 12 months, only 20,000 cases were resolved, with a mere 12% of those resulting in refugee status. This low approval rate suggests a more rigorous evaluation process, possibly influenced by stricter interpretation of asylum criteria or increased scrutiny of applicants’ claims.
As of October 2024, there are still 34,000 applications pending decisions. This backlog highlights the ongoing challenges faced by European immigration authorities in managing the volume of asylum requests efficiently. The delay in processing not only affects the lives of individuals seeking refuge but also places additional strain on the system as a whole.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
The report underscores a dual challenge: the growing backlog of cases and the increasing difficulty of obtaining asylum for Pakistanis. Even as the number of applications declines, the hurdles faced by applicants remain significant. This situation reflects broader trends in European migration policy, where the focus is shifting toward stricter controls and faster decision-making processes.
For Pakistanis, the path to asylum in Europe is becoming more complex. While some may find relief in the reduced numbers, others may face greater obstacles in securing legal protection. The evolving landscape of asylum policies will likely continue to shape the experiences of those seeking refuge in the coming years.
