New data released by Eurostat shows that European Union countries granted protection status to 361,325 asylum seekers in 2025, an 18% drop compared to the previous year.The figures highlight a shift in how asylum cases are being handled across the bloc, with fewer people receiving protection overall despite ongoing global displacement.Of those granted protection, just over half (51%) received full refugee status, while 25% were given humanitarian protection and 24% were granted subsidiary protection. Compared to 2024, refugee status numbers remained relatively stable, humanitarian protection rose slightly, and subsidiary protection saw a sharp 50% drop.Most protection statuses were granted by Germany, which accounted for 29% of the total with over 103,000 cases. Spain followed with 76,210, and France with 72,930.Together, these three countries made up 70% of all protection decisions across the EU.Afghan nationals made up the largest group of people granted protection in 2025, accounting for 27% of all positive decisions. They were followed by Venezuelans (16%), while Syrians and Ukrainians each represented around 5%.Recognition rates also varied significantly depending on nationality. Venezuelans had the highest success rate at 92% in first-time decisions, followed by Afghans at 73%.In total, EU countries processed more than 1 million asylum decisions in 2025, including both first-time applications and appeals.However, only 39% of first-instance decisions resulted in protection being granted, dropping further to 21% for final decisions after appeals.The figures reflect ongoing changes in migration trends and asylum policies across Europe, as countries continue to navigate one of the most complex humanitarian challenges facing the region.Credit: Politico & Eurostat•