Call to Jointly Advance European Asylum Reform
November 22, 2024
Berlin – The European Commission has called for renewed efforts to advance asylum reform in the European Union. In a statement released today, the Commission outlined its priorities for the upcoming negotiations, emphasizing the need for a fair and sustainable asylum system that protects those in need while ensuring the integrity of the EU’s external borders.
Key Points of the Commission’s Statement:
- Strengthening the Dublin Regulation: The Commission proposes reforms to the Dublin Regulation, which determines which EU member state is responsible for examining an asylum application. The aim is to make the system more efficient and equitable, ensuring that asylum seekers are processed in a timely manner and that no country bears a disproportionate burden.
- Establishing a new Solidarity Mechanism: To address the uneven distribution of asylum seekers across the EU, the Commission advocates for a new solidarity mechanism. This would provide financial and technical assistance to member states facing particular challenges, such as those experiencing a large influx of asylum seekers.
- Improving Reception Conditions: The Commission emphasizes the importance of improving reception conditions for asylum seekers, ensuring adequate housing, access to healthcare, and support services. The lack of adequate reception facilities has been a persistent challenge in many EU member states, leading to overcrowding and poor living conditions.
- Enhancing Cooperation with Third Countries: To effectively manage asylum flows, the Commission calls for strengthened cooperation with third countries, particularly those from which asylum seekers originate. This would involve working with these countries to address the root causes of migration, promote voluntary returns, and support refugees within their regions.
- Combating Irregular Migration: The Commission recognizes the need to address irregular migration while upholding the principle of non-refoulement (not returning people to a place where their lives or freedom would be at risk). It proposes measures to strengthen border controls, enhance collaboration with law enforcement authorities, and expand return agreements with third countries.
Next Steps:
The Commission’s statement will serve as the basis for negotiations among EU member states in the coming months. The aim is to reach an agreement on a comprehensive asylum reform package by the end of 2025. The negotiations are expected to be complex, with varying positions among member states on issues such as the distribution of asylum seekers, the criteria for granting asylum, and the treatment of irregular migrants.
Background:
The EU has been grappling with asylum reform for several years, with previous attempts to find common ground facing challenges. The ongoing migration crisis has put additional pressure on the EU’s asylum system, highlighting the need for urgent action. The Commission’s statement reflects the growing recognition among member states that a sustainable and humane European asylum policy is essential for addressing the challenges of migration, protecting those in need, and preserving the integrity of the EU’s borders.
Meldung: Europäische Asylreform gemeinsam voranbringen
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