2024-10-19 13:25:00
Meeting in Brussels, European leaders asked last Thursday, the 17th, for an “emergency” law to speed up the repatriations of irregular migrants. With only 18.9% of expulsions effective in 2023, the 27 countries are struggling to maintain the coherence of their migration policies. Sensitive topic.
“A law to facilitate the return of migrants”: brilliant or desperate idea? The bitter failure of the 2018 attempt still looms over the debates, but this time it is the European right that takes the reins. The political climate has changed and with it the tolerance of states towards a European Union that they consider ineffective. In this context, States urge the Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, to act quickly. The latter had already promised new legislation for December. On the other hand, the immigration pact adopted in April, which seemed like a step towards greater solidarity, is barely mentioned. The discussions are plagued by divisions.
The great support for Poland reveals another angle of attack: the “manipulation” of migrants by Belarus, perceived as a direct threat to European values. “Exceptional situations require adequate measures,” insisted some European leaders, hinting that the right to asylum could be suspended. This drastic brake on asylum contrasts with the declarations in defense of rights, made in particular by von der Leyen and Macron. Second The worldthis pressure to partially suspend the right to asylum at the Polish border could set a dangerous precedent.
Finally, the search for “innovative solutions” such as “return hubs” gives rise to heated debates. This is demonstrated by Italy’s controversial agreement with Albania for sending migrants to reception centres. On the one hand, small states see it as a temporary solution; on the other hand, powers such as Germany or Belgium consider it ineffective and expensive. As reported The EchoesThe Belgian Prime Minister also underlined that these centers have never proven their effectiveness. In short, Europe is still searching for itself, torn between security and humanity.
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