After eight years of negotiations, the European Union has finally agreed on new rules under the New Pact on Migration and Asylum. However, instead of solving issues, this new Pact seems to worsen existing problems.
Ignoring Cities’ Roles
The New Pact aims to create a coordinated approach to migration and asylum across the EU. Ironically, it overlooks the crucial role cities play in integrating migrants. Cities and municipalities are on the frontline, providing essential services and integration policies, yet the Pact neglects their contributions.
Migration as a Threat
The Pact portrays migration as a threat to be controlled. It emphasizes border protection, strict screening processes, and externalizing asylum procedures through agreements with non-EU countries. This approach frames migration in terms of security risks and burden management, rather than addressing it as a human rights issue.
Human Rights Concerns
The New Pact undermines the principle that all people deserve fair and humane treatment. International law grants migrants the right to seek asylum in any EU member state, but the Pact’s focus on processing centers at EU borders threatens this right. There’s no guarantee that individuals detained in these centers will receive the legal assistance they need.
The screening regulation does not differentiate between regular migrants and vulnerable groups like unaccompanied minors, potentially leading to inadequate protection and support for those in need. This could result in more undocumented migrants in cities across Europe.
Economic Necessity of Legal Migration
Europe faces demographic changes and a shrinking workforce, with high demand for workers in various sectors. Embracing legal migration can attract skilled migrants, addressing labor shortages and enriching European societies with diverse talents and perspectives. This approach ensures long-term economic growth and social cohesion.
Cities’ Experience in Integration
Despite the EU’s claims of learning from successful integration policies, the New Pact fails to recognize the importance of local authorities. Cities like Amsterdam and Vilnius have extensive experience in integrating newcomers. They offer language courses, labor market integration programs, and other support systems to help refugees and migrants become productive members of their communities.
The New EU Pact on Migration and Asylum aims to create a unified approach to migration but falls short in addressing immediate needs and respecting human rights. By sidelining cities and focusing on border management, the Pact misses the mark on long-term sustainable integration. To effectively address migration, the EU must leverage the experience and expertise of cities, ensuring fair treatment and robust support for all migrants. A better future for Europe begins in its cities.
