UN says migrant flow through Balkans to reach 3,000 a day
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 26 August 2015 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, UN says migrant flow through Balkans to reach 3,000 a day, 26 August 2015, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/55ee9722c.html [accessed 2 June 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
August 26, 2015
The number of migrants crossing through Balkan countries on their way north to the European Union is expected to reach 3,000 per day, the United Nations forecast on August 25.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees said it expected about 3,000 people to cross into Macedonia every day from Greece, the first EU nation they reach in their flight from conflict and deprivation in the Middle East and beyond.
"We do not see any end to the influx of people in coming months," said agency spokeswoman Melissa Fleming.
She cited continued violence in Syria and Iraq and deteriorating conditions for refugees in overcrowded camps and homes in Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon.
Fleming said that Germany and Sweden had taken in 43 percent of the asylum-seekers in the 28-nation bloc and suggested the burden should be divided more evenly.
"We honestly believe if correct measures are taken, this is something that Europe can handle," she said. "It's a bigger number than last year, yes. But it's not going to turn Europe upside down."
Based on reporting by dpa, Reuters, and The New York Times
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
