The European Commission’s strategy on migration
The European Commission has put forward its vision of the European Union’s migration policy for the next five years, which focuses on increasing deportations and boosting cooperation with non-EU countries.
It sets out the way forward to achieve three main objectives: to prevent illegal migration and human trafficking, to protect people fleeing war and persecution while preventing abuse of the system, and to attract skilled workers to the EU. The aim is to show that “the European Union is ready to shape mobility on our own terms”, said EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner.
To achieve these objectives, the Commission intends to expand cooperation with non- EU countries, also by setting up so-called “multifunctional centres” along refugee routes, the details of which are unclear at this stage. Furthermore, the Commission intends to put pressure on third countries to take back rejected asylum seekers. Visa waiver agreements for non-EU countries may be suspended if, in the EU’s opinion, they do not cooperate sufficiently on migration issues.
Apart from implementing a strict asylum system, the Commission intends to address the shortage of skilled workers in certain sectors. Partnerships with other countries will be expanded and qualifications will be recognized faster. Non-EU citizens and employers will receive support in the visa application process.
