EU Countries Grant Protection Status To 438,000 Asylum Seekers In 2024

In 2024, EU nations granted protection status to 437,900 asylum seekers, marking a 7% rise from the previous year’s 409,530, as per Eurostat. Of these individuals, 42% were awarded refugee status, 39% received subsidiary protection, and 19% obtained humanitarian status. Compared to 2023, refugee status grants rose by 6%, subsidiary protection increased by 19%, while humanitarian status saw a decline of 9%.

Germany led in granting protection status with 150,500 recipients, accounting for 34% of the EU total. France followed with 65,230 (15%), and Spain with 50,915 (12%). These three countries collectively accounted for 61% of all protection statuses granted across the EU. This highlights their significant role in addressing asylum applications within the region.

The majority of those granted protection in the EU were Syrians, making up 32% of the total. Afghans followed at 17%, and Venezuelans comprised 8%. This demographic distribution reflects ongoing conflicts and crises in these regions that drive people to seek asylum in Europe.

In terms of decision-making on asylum applications in the EU during 2024, there were 754,525 first instance decisions made. Additionally, there were another 185,455 final decisions following appeals or reviews. From these first instance decisions, protection status was granted to 387,635 individuals. An additional 50,265 people received protection after an appeal or review process.

The recognition rate for first instance decisions stood at 51%, indicating that just over half of these decisions resulted in positive outcomes for applicants. For final decisions on appeal or review, the recognition rate was lower at 27%. These rates encompass both international protections like refugee and subsidiary statuses and national protections based on individual country legislation.

Recognition Rates by Citizenship

Among the top five citizenships with the highest number of first instance decisions in 2024, Syrians had a recognition rate of 92%. Venezuelans followed closely with an 89% recognition rate and Afghans at 81%. These high rates suggest a strong acknowledgment of the dire situations faced by individuals from these countries.

The data underscores the ongoing challenges faced by asylum seekers and highlights the EU's efforts to address these needs through various forms of protection. The increase in grants reflects a growing commitment to providing refuge to those fleeing conflict and persecution.

With inputs from WAM