Sudanese Migrants Turn to Crete as Arrivals in Greece Surge

by · Greek City Times

Thousands of people fleeing Sudan’s civil war are making their way towards Europe, with Greece emerging as a major destination and Crete serving as a key entry point.

Nearly 10,000 Sudanese nationals arrived in Greece during 2025, around six times the number recorded the previous year, according to figures cited in a recent report.

Many make the journey through Libya before attempting to cross the Mediterranean in boats bound for Europe.

The movement is also being reflected in Italy, where Sudanese nationals account for approximately 10 per cent of migrants arriving by sea.

Read more: Boat Carrying Migrants Partially Sinks Off Gavdos, 25 Missing

The growing number of arrivals is linked to Sudan’s prolonged civil war, which has forced large numbers of people to flee their homes in search of safety.

The report also identifies Turkey, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Qatar as countries providing military and financial support to Sudan’s military.

As the conflict continues, displacement across the region is placing increasing pressure on migration routes towards Europe, particularly across the central and eastern Mediterranean.

For Greece, the sharp rise in Sudanese arrivals highlights the growing significance of Crete as a point of entry for people undertaking the dangerous sea crossing from North Africa.

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