Plevris Issues ‘Prison or Return’ Ultimatum to Migrants in Fiery Speech

08:11 5/2/2026 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

Migration Minister Thanos Plevris has issued a stark ultimatum to migrants entering Greece illegally, declaring a policy of “prison or return” during a heated parliamentary debate.

Defending the government’s hard-line stance hours after a deadly migrant boat collision off Chios, Mr. Plevris asserted that those denied asylum have no right to remain.

“No one can force a sovereign state to legalize

individuals who entered illegally,” Mr. Plevris said. 

He warned that rejected applicants who refuse voluntary repatriation will face criminal prosecution, with deportation serving as the only alternative to incarceration.

The minister fiercely defended the Greek Coast Guard against criticism regarding the recent tragedy, crediting officers—not “professional humanitarians”—with saving lives. 

He announced that the new legislation will end direct state contracts with NGOs and impose harsher sentences on traffickers found operating within registered aid groups.

Mr. Plevris cited data showing a 21% drop in migrant arrivals in 2025, attributing the decline to stricter enforcement. 

He also revealed that Athens is coordinating with Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria to establish deportation centers outside the European Union, potentially in Africa.

While toughening border enforcement, the bill seeks to modernize legal migration. 

Mr. Plevris outlined plans to clear a backlog of 200,000 residence permits and introduce “tech visas” to attract skilled labor. 

However, he proposed tightening rules for unaccompanied minors, citing increased age fraud among applicants from Egypt.

“Protection status does not imply long-term dependency on taxpayers,” Mr. Plevris said.

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Plevris Issues ‘Prison, Return’ Ultimatum,Migrants, Fiery Speech