The European Union (EU) presents a New Pact on Migration and Asylum, a crucial milestone in managing migration in the European continent.

We will take a human and humane approach. Saving lives at sea is not optional. And those countries who fulfil their legal and moral duties or are more exposed than others, must be able to rely on the solidarity of our whole European Union… Everybody has to step up here and take responsibility.’

 President von der Leyen, State of the Union Address 2020

This is how the European Commission begins its communication on the new Pact on Migration and Asylum, which you can read in detail here.

Recognising the deep interconnection between Member States and the need for a unified approach, the pact aims to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the EU, from border management to migrant integration.

The EU now has a population of around 20.9 million legally resident third-country nationals.

This represents about 4.7% of the total population of the European Union.

Thus, the pact aims to ensure a fair distribution of responsibilities among Member States.

Moreover, by addressing issues such as asylum applications, returns, and integration, the pact seeks to create faster and more efficient processes, as well as promote safe and legal routes for those in need of protection.

This new commitment reflects the EU’s determination to build a migration policy based on European values and human rights, while responding to the challenges and opportunities that migration brings.

The European Commission reinforces its commitment to reforming the Common European Asylum System.

The goal is to ensure a fair and swift process, including equal treatment and legal certainty for asylum seekers. In other words, the proposals aim to preserve the progress made and, furthermore, harmonise criteria for international protection and improve reception conditions.

The creation of a European Union Agency for Asylum is part of this effort.

The proposal for a Framework Regulation for resettlement and humanitarian admission is also essential. Both reinforce the EU’s commitment to the humanitarian and efficient management of migration.

You can read more details about this matter in this informative booklet published in a very understandable manner by the Commission.

Thank you for reading,

GSN Team.