EU Takes Step Towards Migration Reform
European Union (EU) countries have taken a step towards migration reform by reaching an agreement on how to address illegal migration during periods of significant increases in the number of refugees. This move marks progress towards revising asylum and migration rules in preparation for the upcoming pan-European elections next year.
It is reported by Reuters.
Sweden's Minister for Migration, Maria Malmer Stenergard, stated, "Now we can continue negotiations. It's important to ensure that the pact is implemented effectively, maintain order at the EU's external borders, and reduce refugee flows."
The agreement was reached by representatives from the 27 member states of the EU after resolving the recent dispute between Italy and Germany regarding charity vessels involved in rescuing individuals in the Mediterranean. These vessels come to the aid of refugees and migrants from the Middle East and Africa who attempt to reach Europe on precarious boats.
Poland and Hungary, both staunchly opposed to accepting migrants from the Middle East and Africa, voted against the agreement. Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia abstained from the vote. The decision was ultimately made by a majority vote.
Next, member states will continue negotiations with the European Parliament, aiming to establish a functional migration system ahead of the 2024 European Parliament elections.
Under the agreement, countries heavily impacted by Mediterranean migration, such as Italy, can expedite asylum procedures and request support from fellow EU members. This support may include financial aid and resettlement of refugees.
Diplomatic sources revealed that Italy agreed to the deal after certain references to the activities of charitable organizations funded by Germany, which assist illegal migrants, were removed.
In June, EU countries previously reached an agreement on migrant resettlement. This new regulation introduces a "mandatory solidarity" system, offering EU member states three options for handling newly arrived migrants: accepting a specific number of asylum seekers on their territory, paying 20,000 euros for each migrant denied asylum, or contributing to operational support, such as infrastructure and transportation.
The main point of contention was the "crisis regulation," which some countries, including Germany, believed would allow EU member states to significantly reduce migrant protection standards in cases of exceptionally high migration influx.