EU+ asylum applications down by one fifth in 2025, amid shifting geopolitical dynamics

EU+ countries received 19 % fewer asylum applications in 2025, following a decrease of 11 % in 2024. The decrease in 2025 was largely driven by fewer applications by Syrians, Bangladeshis and Turks. Despite the overall decline, applications by Afghan nationals increased, primarily reflecting claims lodged by women already present in the EU+, while Venezuelan applications also rose amid heightened tensions at home.