According to the UNHCR, on Tuesday, 27 migrants who were trapped in the buffer zone due to the heat were experiencing dizziness, insect bites, and fainting.
UN refugee agency official Emilia Strovolidou told the Cyprus Mail that these were not conditions the people could continue to live in.
The 27 migrants have been stuck in the buffer zone since their arrival because they are not allowed to proceed through Cyprus’ asylum processes.
Two groups, discovered in mid-May and late May, crossed into the buffer zone from the north.
According to Strovolidou, they are currently experiencing nausea and vertigo on a daily basis.
“These people are stuck because they fled their countries in search of safety and a better life.”
Unficyp has provided food, medical supplies, tents, and facilities such as restrooms and showers for the migrants.
Strovolidou went on, “This is not something that can continue forever.”
The New York Times was informed by Annita Hipper, home affairs spokesperson for the European Commission, that “the possibility for any person to apply for international protection on a member state’s territory, including at its border or in a transit zone, is established in EU law.”
The government’s rejection, which was justified by the Green Line regulation, has drawn criticism from UN circles, who informed the Cyprus Mail that the government’s handling of the situation is illegal under international law.
(Source: CyprusMail)