Study launch "Beyond Borders, Beyond Boundaries"
A Critical Analysis of EU Financial Support for Border Control in Tunisia and Libya
In recent years, the European Union (EU) and its Member States have intensified their efforts to prevent migrants and asylum seekers from reaching EU borders. One strategy to reach this goal consists in the funding of third countries' coast guards and border police.
The impact on migrants, asylum seekers and refugees is devastating. Tunisian and Libyan authorities - which are the main beneficiaries of the funding programs - carry out human rights violations within the framework of border management activities funded by the EU-supported programs, especially in the context of sea interceptions.
The study will give an overview on EU supported border management initiatives in Tunisia and Libya, and the severe human rights impact they entail. The study also examines the link to human rights provisions in the Neighbourhood, Development, and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) - Global Europe Regulation within this context and looks into the decision-making processes for implementing the NDICI work in practice.
Together with the researchers, NGOs and decision makers we will discuss the urgent need for comprehensive scrutiny and reformulation of European Union funding intended for managing the external aspects of migration.
+++ The event takes place in the European Parliament, room Spinelli 6D128, Brussels +++
PROGRAMME
12h35: Opening remarks: MEP Erik Marquardt
12h40: Presentation of study: Estela Casajuana, Senior Researcher, Profundo
12h50: Panel discussion on human rights compliance and accountability in EU external Integrated Border Management programs :
Moderator: Ariadne Papagapitos (Impact Director, Lighthouse Reports)
Speakers
- Francisco Gaztelu-Mezquiriz, Head of Unit for Migration Assistance to Neighbouring Countries, DG NEAR
- Giorgia Jana Pintus, Project Officer at ARCI and co-author of the study
- Giorgia Linardi, Legal Advisor at Sea Watch
Q&A
14h: Closing remarks MEP Tineke Strik
