Migration

The European Commission today presented its proposals for a 'Migration Compact' system for managing an EU approach to migration, as well as for a legal entry visa programme for high-skilled migrants, the so-called 'blue card'. Commenting on the 'Migration Compact', Green migration spokesperson Judith Sargentini said:

"While the development of a coherent EU-level approach to migration is long overdue, what the Commission is proposing today would be an abdication of responsibility by the EU. The massively flawed agreement with Turkey would essentially become a template for the EU's approach to asylum and immigration. The proposed 'Partnership Framework' on cooperation with third countries to reduce irregular migration essentially amounts to the outsourcing of the EU's responsibilities to countries where basic protection of human rights is not guaranteed (for example in Eritrea and Somalia).

"These developing countries could receive funds intended for development aid to tighten their borders. This would be at odds with the EU treaties, which specify that development cooperation policy should be aimed at eradicating poverty. Much needed funds for the poor are thus being misused and, as a result, the Commission's proposals fail to deal with the actual reasons why people migrate in the first place."

Commenting on the 'blue card' proposals, Green migration spokesperson Bodil Valero added:

"The 'blue card' concept is narrow and exclusive in scope and will fail to deal with the need for a comprehensive EU system of legal migration. The Greens have long argued for the need to create a system of legal migration to the EU. However, this system must not be limited to migrants in high wage sectors. A large part of those risking their lives to come to Europe by sea are economic migrants in search of work opportunities in Europe. The EU should also establish legal routes for low and middle skilled migrants, to allow them to enter the EU labour market."