European Union countries approved extensive changes to the bloc’s troubled asylum system on Tuesday as campaigning intensifies for next month’s Europe-wide elections, with migration anticipated to be a key issue.
EU ministers endorsed 10 legislative components of The New Pact on Migration and Asylum. It sets out guidelines for the 27 member states on handling unauthorized entries, from screening arrivals to determining eligibility for protection and deporting those who do not qualify.
Hungary and Poland, which have consistently opposed mandatory migrant quotas and financial responsibilities, voted against the package but were unable to prevent its approval.
Migrants rest on the deck (Jimmy Baker/Getty Images)
Mainstream political parties believe the pact addresses longstanding divisions among member states since more than 1 million migrants arrived in Europe in 2015, primarily fleeing conflict in Syria and Iraq. They hope the new system will weaken support for far-right parties in the June 6-9 elections.
However, the comprehensive reforms will not take effect until 2026, offering no immediate solution to a crisis that has deeply divided the EU politically. Disagreements persist over which countries should bear responsibility for migrants upon arrival and whether others should be obligated to provide assistance.
Critics argue that the pact permits border detention of migrants and the fingerprinting of children, potentially discouraging asylum claims and violating their rights. Concerns also exist about increased reliance on questionable agreements with poorer countries migrants transit through to reach Europe.
