EU member countries agree on migration policy reform

The text provides, in the event of a “massive” and “exceptional” influx of migrants, the establishment of an exceptional regime that is less protective for asylum seekers.

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The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and the head of the Italian government, Giorgia Meloni, in Italy, September 17, 2023. (EUROPEAN UNION / HANS LUCAS / AFP)

The ambassadors of EU countries, meeting on Wednesday October 4 in Brussels, agreed on a key text for the reform of European migration policy. The regulation under discussion is intended to organize a common response in the event of a massive influx of migrants into an EU country, such as during the refugee crisis of 2015-2016. It will now have to be negotiated with MEPs.

>> Why does the European pact on migration and asylum divide EU member countries?

In case of influx “massive” And “exceptional”LThis text allows in particular to extend the duration of detention of migrants at the external borders of the EU, up to 40 weeks. It establishes faster and simplified asylum application examination procedures for a larger number of exiles, so that they can be returned more easily. In addition, it provides for the rapid triggering of solidarity mechanisms towards the Member State faced with this influx, in particular in the form of relocation of asylum seekers or a financial contribution.

This regulation was opposed for several months to the objections of Germany, for humanitarian reasons and on disagreements over the role of NGOs rescuing migrants. The head of the Italian government, Giorgia Meloni, demanded last week that these NGOs disembark migrants in the countries whose flag their boats fly. An agreement was finally found on the wording of this point, allowing both Italy and Germany to join the text.


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