Europe (Washington Insider Magazine) — The European Parliament has passed a groundbreaking overhaul of the EU’s migration and asylum policies, marking a significant step in managing the ongoing migration challenges across the bloc.
The migration pact, nearly a decade in the making, secured approval despite opposition from far-right and far-left parties. It outlines measures for member states to share responsibility for asylum seekers, including mandatory financial contributions for countries opting out of accepting migrants.
Parliament President Roberta Metsola declared the move “history made,” while German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called it an “indispensable step” for the EU. The reforms aim to strengthen external border protections, ensure aid for vulnerable groups, and introduce faster returns for those ineligible to stay.
However, not all reactions were celebratory. Protests erupted during the parliamentary session, with demonstrators shouting, “This pact kills,” and human rights organizations criticizing the pact for undermining the right to seek asylum. Amnesty International warned of increased risks of human rights violations under the new framework.
The pact must now be endorsed by all 27 EU member states, with a vote expected by late April 2024. While hailed as a milestone by some, the pact faces continued scrutiny from rights groups and opposition within the bloc.
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