Sofia Voultepsi, the Deputy Minister for Migration in Greece, criticized the EU for failing to implement a cohesive migration policy, highlighting increased displacement due to wars and climate change. She called attention to the need for a common system for asylum, returns, and integration, as Europe braces for a continuing influx of migrants. Recent incidents involving rescues and policy changes in other European countries further highlight the ongoing migration crisis.
In a recent statement, a Greek official has publicly denounced the European Commission for its inadequate handling of migration policies amidst rising global instability due to war and climate change. Sofia Voultepsi, who serves as the Deputy Minister for Migration, highlighted the shortcomings of the European Union’s migration pact, which, although agreed upon earlier this year, remains deficient in its implementation, particularly concerning the lack of a coherent system for the deportation of migrants. During a conference held near Athens, she remarked, “We got the (agreement), but the basic piece is still missing: Returns. We must have a common system for asylum, a common system for returns, and a common system for integration.” Voultepsi warned that ongoing conflicts in regions such as the Middle East and Africa, coupled with the adverse impacts of climate change, would result in sustained and increasing pressure on Europe. Set to come into effect by mid-2026, the EU migration pact is currently under discussion among the 27 member states of the bloc, and Voultepsi raised concerns about the escalating refugee situation in Lebanon, exacerbated by Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah. She stated, “Countries like Somalia, Ethiopia, and South Sudan … are affected by both war and climate change, creating an ever-growing flow of migrants towards Europe.” As a major entry point for migrants into the European Union, Greece remains affected by the perilous journeys undertaken by many who cross from Turkey and Libya. On a related note, the Greek coast guard recently rescued 81 migrants from a stranded vessel en route from Turkey to Italy, revealing that each passenger had reportedly paid approximately $8,500 for the perilous trip. In separate migrant-related developments across Europe, an Italian navy ship is anticipated to dock at an Albanian port with a group of migrants whose asylum claims will be processed in Albania under a recent accord. Additionally, in Poland, Prime Minister Donald Tusk proposed a temporary suspension of the right to asylum, aiming to establish a new migration policy that awaits parliamentary approval.
The issue of migration in Europe has been at the forefront of political discussions, shaped by various factors including armed conflicts, socioeconomic challenges, and environmental crises. The reliance on unsafe passages across the Mediterranean Sea places immense pressure on countries like Greece, which serves as a primary gateway into the EU for migrants fleeing dire circumstances. Recent shifts in policy among various European governments reflect a growing uncertainty surrounding the best approaches to handle the influx of displaced persons. The 2023 European Union migration pact—though built on consensus among member states—has faced scrutiny over its practical execution, particularly concerning necessary strategies for the return and integration of migrants. The criticisms voiced by Greek officials highlight the urgent need for a unified and effective migration strategy that addresses both humanitarian needs and security concerns.
In summary, Sofia Voultepsi’s criticism of the European Commission underscores the persistent challenges faced by the EU in terms of migration policy. The current agreement lacks essential components, including mechanisms for the return and integration of migrants. As global instability escalates due to war and climate change, it becomes imperative for EU member states to develop a comprehensive, collaborative strategy to manage migration effectively. The experiences of Greece and other member countries reveal critical gaps that need to be addressed, emphasizing the importance of a robust response to this pressing issue.
Original Source: apnews.com
