Fifteen countries within the European Union, led by Denmark and the Czech Republic, are advocating for “new solutions” to facilitate the transfer of migrants to countries outside of the EU, including during sea rescue operations. These countries, which include Italy and Greece but not Hungary, are looking to go beyond the recently adopted EU migration pact that tightens immigration control in Europe. They are urging the European Commission to identify, develop, and propose new means and solutions to prevent irregular migration to Europe, as stated in a letter seen by the Agence France-Presse. The fifteen signatory countries are Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Greece, Italy, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, and Romania.
They are advocating for mechanisms that would allow for the detection, interception, and rescue of migrants at sea, and their transfer to a safe location in a non-EU partner country where sustainable solutions could be found for these migrants. European law stipulates that an immigrant arriving in the EU can be sent to a country outside the bloc where they could have applied for asylum, provided they have a sufficient connection to that third country. The goal of these countries is to address the ongoing challenges posed by irregular migration and find long-term solutions that will benefit both the migrants and the countries involved in the process.
The push for new solutions reflects the ongoing debate within the EU regarding how to handle migration flows in a humane and effective manner. While the EU has taken steps to strengthen its external borders and prevent irregular migration, the issue remains complex and requires a multi-faceted approach. By advocating for mechanisms to improve search and rescue operations at sea, as well as facilitate the transfer of migrants to safe locations outside of the EU, these countries are seeking to address the immediate challenges posed by irregular migration while also promoting cooperation with non-EU partners.
The proposal put forth by these fifteen countries highlights the importance of international cooperation and shared responsibility in addressing migration challenges. By working together to develop new means and solutions for preventing irregular migration, these countries are aiming to create a more sustainable and efficient system for managing migration flows. Additionally, by focusing on the needs of migrants and ensuring their safety during sea rescue operations, these countries are emphasizing the importance of upholding human rights and humanitarian principles in their approach to migration management.
In light of the recent adoption of the EU migration pact, which focuses on strengthening border controls and screening measures, the proposal from these fifteen countries represents a different approach that prioritizes the safety and well-being of migrants. By calling for new mechanisms to improve search and rescue operations and facilitate the transfer of migrants to safe locations, these countries are emphasizing the need for a holistic and proactive approach to migration management that takes into account the humanitarian aspects of the issue. The proposal also underscores the importance of cooperation with non-EU partners in finding sustainable solutions for addressing irregular migration and upholding the values of solidarity and responsibility within the EU and beyond.
