Sofia Voultepsi, Greece’s Deputy Minister for Migration, criticized the EU for failing to create effective migration policies, emphasizing the need for a common system for asylum, returns, and integration. She highlighted the increase in global displacement due to wars and climate change, stressing that Greece faces continuous pressure as a primary entry point for migrants. Recent incidents, including the rescue of 81 migrants, illustrate the ongoing challenges in the region and the need for cohesive EU responses.
In a recent address, Sofia Voultepsi, Greece’s Deputy Minister for Migration, has sharply criticized the European Commission for its inability to establish a cohesive policy for the deportation of migrants. During a conference near Athens, she emphasized that the recently agreed-upon European Union migration pact lacks significant practical measures, particularly in the area of returning migrants to their countries of origin. “We got the (agreement), but the basic piece is still missing: Returns,” Voultepsi stated, underlining the need for a unified approach to asylum, return procedures, and integration of migrants into society. Voultepsi further noted that the growing instability due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Africa, coupled with the adverse effects of climate change, would continue to contribute to an influx of migrants towards Europe. She expressed particular concern regarding the escalating number of refugees in Lebanon as a result of current Israeli airstrikes against the militant organization Hezbollah. “Countries like Somalia, Ethiopia, and South Sudan … are affected by both war and climate change, creating an ever-growing flow of migrants towards Europe,” she remarked. As a primary entry point for migrants entering the European Union, Greece faces ongoing challenges with many individuals crossing perilously from Turkey and Libya. On a related note, the Greek coast guard announced the rescue of 81 migrants from a distressed vessel en route from Turkey to Italy, highlighting the perilous state of migration in the region. Reportedly, these individuals had each paid $8,500 for the journey, and four passengers were apprehended on smuggling charges. In broader European developments, Italy has begun processing some asylum applications in Albania for migrants intercepted at sea, based on a five-year agreement between the two nations. Additionally, Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk is contemplating a temporary suspension of the right to asylum, pending parliamentary approval, amidst ongoing efforts to forge new migration policies.
The ongoing migration crisis in Europe has prompted various member states to seek more structured and effective responses to the challenges posed by increasing numbers of migrants arriving, largely due to conflicts and climate-related issues. The European Union’s recent pact aimed at enhancing migration management is set to be implemented by mid-2026, necessitating further negotiations among the 27 member countries to ensure cohesive and actionable agreements. Greece, positioned as a significant entry point, has been at the forefront of this migration wave, reflecting the need for robust policies encompassing asylum, return procedures, and integration.
In summary, Sofia Voultepsi’s remarks underscore the urgent need for a unified and pragmatic strategy to address the complexities of migration in light of war and climate change. The pressures on European nations to create effective policies are mounting as displaced populations continue to seek refuge. Greece’s experiences serve as a relevant example of the broader challenges faced across Europe, highlighting the inadequacies of current measures and the pressing need for a collaborative approach among EU member states.
Original Source: apnews.com
