The Republic of Cyprus filed a complaint against "academic institutions" in the occupied territories to the European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (ENQA). The Ministries of Interior and Education, Sports and Youth, in collaboration with the Agency for Assurance and Certification of Higher Education (DIPAE), filed a complaint against "universities" in the occupied territories, quoting detailed information on 188 cases of third country nationals who arrived in the occupied territories with "student visas" and almost simultaneously went to the free areas, where they applied for asylum from the Republic of Cyprus.
Examining the testimonies and evidence provided by the competent authorities of the Republic, it was documented that these are virtual students. The finding that it concerns a repeated phenomenon indicates that it is done following guidance and may refer to human trafficking.
Following the complaints, ENQA, as the substantive European body, has begun investigating these "universities" and their connection to possible human trafficking.
The phenomenon of virtual students was one of the main factors that contributed to the intense pressure that Cyprus received, with mass arrivals, mainly of African nationals, through the Green Line. Realizing that these persons were vulnerable to exploitation and exploitation by trafficking rings, the Government promoted, among other measures, the implementation of the provisions included in the Action Plan for the Eastern Mediterranean, exerting pressure in the direction of Turkey, in cooperation with the European Commission, the Frontex Agency and Europol. In addition, it carried out an informational online campaign in Sub-Saharan African countries, citing the real facts that prevail in Cyprus in relation to irregular immigration.
As a result of the measures taken, there was a 65% reduction in the number of arrivals through the ceasefire line, as well as a steep 85% reduction in the arrivals of African nationals. At the same time, the Government's policy has led to the decongestion of the reception and hospitality system, with the First Reception Center currently hosting around 250 people.
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