EU Deal on Equitable Refugee Hosting

June 9, 2023

The European Union (EU) has achieved a significant breakthrough in its efforts to revise rules for the equitable sharing of hosting asylum seekers. The deal was reached on June 8, during a day of intense negotiations between EU interior ministers in Luxembourg.

Reaching the Majority and Population Threshold

In order for the deal to be approved, it required the endorsement of a majority of countries representing at least 65% of the EU’s population. After years of contentious debates and disagreements over asylum policies, this agreement marks a decisive step forward.

Compulsory Help and Two Approaches

The proposal presented at the meeting called for compulsory assistance between EU member states, offering two options for implementation. The focus was on sharing the hosting of asylum seekers, particularly those arriving in countries located on the EU’s outer rim, such as Italy and Greece.

Financial Consequences and Voting Results

According to the agreed-upon terms, countries that refuse to host refugees will be required to pay 20,000 euros (USD 21,000) per person. This financial contribution will be directed to a fund managed by Brussels. Notably, Poland and Hungary voted against the proposals, while Bulgaria, Malta, Lithuania, and Slovakia abstained from voting.

The Path Ahead

This preliminary agreement paves the way for negotiations with the European Parliament, aiming to establish legislation that could be adopted before the European elections scheduled for June next year.

Addressing a Growing Challenge

The number of asylum seekers has risen recently, following a pause caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. As a result, the issue has become a top priority on the EU’s agenda. In 2020, the European Commission presented a new pact proposal based on a quota system, which faced objections from countries like Hungary and Poland.

Swedish Compromise Texts

Sweden proposed two compromise texts to address these concerns. The first suggested a hosting-or-cash approach, allowing member states to choose between hosting refugees or providing financial contributions. The second text focused on implementing fast-track mechanisms at the borders for arrivals from countries considered safe, facilitating their return.

« Previous Post Next Post »