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How is EU handling its Immigration policy and other related social issues?

How is EU handling its Immigration policy and other related social issues?

Introduction

The European Union has recently implemented significant changes to its immigration policy, primarily through the new Pact on Migration and Asylum, which entered into force on June 11, 2024. This comprehensive reform aims to address the challenges of irregular migration, asylum processing, and burden-sharing among member states. Here’s an overview of how the EU is handling its immigration policy and related social issues:

New Pact on Migration and Asylum

The new pact, set to be fully implemented by mid-2026, introduces several key changes:

Accelerated asylum procedures at EU external borders

Enhanced screening of asylum applicants

A mandatory solidarity mechanism for relocating migrants

Faster deportation processes for rejected applicants

Border Management and Security

Implementation of stricter border controls and screening procedures

Introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in 2025

Improved use of the Schengen Information System for security checks

Burden-Sharing and Solidarity

Member states are required to share responsibility by either

Accepting up to 30,000 asylum applicants per year

Paying a fee of €20,000 per asylum applicant not admitted

Contributing other resources to assist hosting countries

Expedited Procedures

Fast-track processing for applicants from countries with low recognition rates

Maximum 12-week procedure for certain asylum seekers at external borders

Detention-like facilities for families and children during processing

Impact and Challenges

The new policies have already shown some effects:

Irregular border crossings decreased by 42% in the first nine months of 2024

Only about 20% of non-EU nationals ordered to depart have actually left

However, the implementation of these policies faces several challenges

Rising influence of far-right and anti-immigrant parties across Europe

Concerns about human rights violations and the treatment of asylum seekers

Potential political complications due to member states’ discretion in contributing to the solidarity mechanism

Related Social Issues

Integration and Resettlement

The EU is working on

Improving resettlement programs for refugees

Enhancing inclusion and integration efforts for accepted asylum seekers

Addressing Root Causes

The EU continues to focus on partnerships with countries of origin and transit to address the root causes of migration

Development aid and trade policies are being linked to migration management efforts

Human Rights Concerns

Human rights organizations have criticized the EU’s approach, particularly regarding the treatment of migrants at borders and the risk of arbitrary detention

Conclusion

EU’s handling of immigration policy has shifted towards a more restrictive and securitized approach. While aiming to create a more efficient and fair system, the new policies have sparked debates about their impact on human rights and the EU’s humanitarian obligations. The coming years will be crucial in determining the effectiveness and ethical implications of these reforms.

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