Greek Official Critiques EU Migration Policy Amid Rising Global Displacement
A Greek official, Deputy Minister Sofia Voultepsi, criticized the EU’s failure to create an effective migration policy, particularly regarding the deportation of migrants. She highlighted the increasing global displacement due to wars and climate change, calling for a unified approach to asylum, returns, and integration. Greece, facing significant migrant flows, continues to serve as a main entry point into the EU, with ongoing rescue operations underscoring the challenges at hand.
Sofia Voultepsi, the Deputy Minister for Migration in Greece, has voiced strong criticism of the European Commission’s performance regarding migration policies, particularly emphasizing the challenges posed by war and climate change. During a conference held near Athens, she remarked on the inadequacies of the recently agreed European Union migration pact, stating that it lacks essential provisions for the return of migrants. “We got the (agreement), but the basic piece is still missing: Returns,” Voultepsi asserted, highlighting the necessity for a unified approach towards asylum, returns, and integration of migrants across the EU. She noted that ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Africa, coupled with the impacts of climate change, are likely to perpetuate significant migration flows into Europe. She expressed particular concern about the increasing number of refugees displaced by conflicts, such as those resulting from Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon and the deteriorating situations in countries like Somalia and Ethiopia. Voultepsi’s remarks come at a time when Greece remains a critical gateway for migrants entering the EU, with many risking their lives on perilous sea voyages from Turkey and Libya. The Greek coast guard successfully rescued 81 migrants from a stranded vessel recently, highlighting ongoing migration challenges in the region. In other parts of Europe, differing policies on migration are also taking shape, as demonstrated by Italy’s agreement to process asylum applications in Albania and Poland’s potential suspension of asylum rights under the leadership of Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
The discourse on migration within the European Union has been significantly influenced by recent geopolitical tensions and environmental factors, leading to an increased influx of displaced individuals into Europe. Greece, positioned as a principal entry point, faces heightened pressures due to ongoing crises in regions such as the Middle East and Africa, which are exacerbated by climate-related issues. In 2023, the EU revised its migration policies, culminating in a new pact aimed at fortifying common procedures for handling asylum seekers and migrants. Nonetheless, critics, including Greek officials, argue that this pact lacks practical effectiveness in areas such as migrant returns, which are pivotal for a comprehensive migration framework. The ongoing shifts in migration policies across different European countries further illustrate the complexities and divergent approaches in managing refugee inflows in response to humanitarian crises and political considerations.
In conclusion, the recent statements made by Deputy Minister Sofia Voultepsi underscore a pressing call for a cohesive and effective migration policy within the European Union. As geopolitical strife and climate change continue to drive migrant flows, addressing issues related to migrant returns, asylum procedures, and integration becomes critical. The challenges facing Greece as a primary entry point for migrants highlight the urgent need for comprehensive collaboration among EU member states to address these multifaceted issues and establish robust mechanisms to manage increasing displacement effectively.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
