Greece’s Minister of Migration and Asylum, Thanos Plevris, speaking from Rhodes following his meeting with South Aegean Regional Governor Giorgos Hatzimarchos, reported 5,110 migrant arrivals across the Aegean in the first half of 2026 and announced a funding programme to support islands most affected by migration flows, according to dimokratiki.gr. The meeting was also attended by Dodecanese MPs Giannis Pappas, Manos Konsolas and Vassilis Ypsylantis, as well as Deputy Regional Governor Apostolos Asprakis.
Thanos Plevris announces funding packages for affected islands
Minister Plevris outlined the Ministry of Migration and Asylum’s support programme for islands bearing the heaviest burden of migration pressure. According to his statements, Kos has been allocated approximately €5 million, while Leros is set to receive €17 million. Rhodes received €400,000 in support funding, while a dedicated programme is currently being developed for Kalymnos to salvage and remove sunken vessels from its harbour.
Minister Plevris’ full statement
The following is the full statement by Minister of Migration and Asylum Thanos Plevris: “First of all, I would like to thank the Regional Governor for receiving me at what is undoubtedly a very difficult time for him personally, as he is in a period of mourning. I would also like to thank our MPs — Mr. Ypsylantis, Mr. Konsolas and Mr. Pappas — who accompanied me. Ms. Giatridi had also been informed but was unable to attend. At this moment, what is most significant is that migration in the Aegean is fully under control and has been effectively managed. In the first half of 2026, we recorded 5,110 arrivals across the entire Aegean — which essentially amounts to a week’s worth of arrivals on your islands.
I also briefed the Regional Governor on a major support programme we have developed to assist the islands that have suffered from migration pressures over this period. We have already approved funding of close to €5 million for Kos and €17 million for Leros. In Rhodes, we provided €400,000 to cover the costs of a school facility during the period when construction works are being carried out at the academy. Meanwhile, in Kalymnos, we are developing a significant programme to remove all sunken vessels from the harbour. Beyond these financial commitments, the Ministry of Migration and Asylum is in close coordination with local authorities.
I also informed the Regional Governor that going forward, we will be working alongside the regional administration — not just the municipalities — to continue providing tangible support. This is being guided by the valuable input and daily feedback we receive from our MPs here, who consistently bring the existing problems to my attention so that we can work together toward effective solutions.”
