The European Union experienced a record number of over 1.1 million asylum seekers in 2023, with Syrians and Afghans being the majority.

Germany topped the list of EU countries receiving asylum applications, followed by France, Spain, and Italy.

The surge included a significant number of Ukrainian refugees, putting additional strain on Europe's asylum capacities.

Debates have intensified on whether to implement stricter border controls or to maintain the acceptance of refugees escaping danger.

The EU asylum agency reaffirmed the right to seek asylum due to conflict or persecution, while also indicating economic reasons are generally not sufficient for asylum approval.

The rise in asylum applications is challenging the European asylum system and is expected to influence discussions surrounding migration and the far-right in the lead-up to future elections.