European Union Migration Law Reform
European Union lawmakers approve a major revamp of the bloc's migration laws, aiming to address the issue of unauthorized entry and distribute responsibility for migrants across EU countries. The reform package must be endorsed by all 27 member countries before taking effect.
Key Points
- Reforms address responsibility for migrants and cooperation among EU countries
- Aims to balance solidarity and responsibility in managing migration
- Drawn up after the 2015 refugee crisis in Europe
- Mainstream parties aim to address migration concerns ahead of Europe-wide elections in June
Pros
- Addresses the issue of unauthorized entry into the EU
- Distributes responsibility for migrants across EU countries
- Aims to deprive far-right parties of a vote-winning campaign issue
Cons
- Controversial measures include taking facial images and fingerprints of children from the age of 6
- Potential detention during screening and fast-track deportation for those not permitted to stay
- Criticism from migrant and human rights groups for failing to offer sustainable solutions and leaving troubling cracks in Europe's approach to asylum and migration