European Union Advances Migration Policy Overhaul Amidst Internal Opposition
The European Union is moving forward with significant changes to its migration system, aiming to streamline deportations and increase detentions. This overhaul includes the establishment of a 'solidarity pool' to distribute the financial burden of hosting refugees among member states, particularly those facing high migratory pressure like Cyprus, Greece, Italy, and Spain. Hungary and Poland have expressed opposition to mandatory hosting or financial contributions for migrants. The EU's new approach also involves a 'safe third country' concept, allowing for the denial of residency to migrants from designated safe countries. This policy shift comes amid a decade-long debate on migration, influenced by a surge in asylum-seekers and the rise of far-right political parties. The European Council will negotiate with the European Parliament to finalize these changes.