EU Council Agreement on a common European Asylum System is a step in the wrong direction
Only by truly treating asylum as a European issue, instead of a national issue, can we solve its current crisis.
Volt is proposing a system which will protect the individuals travelling into Europe, and ensure there is a safe regular pathway available to them. Simultaneously, we want to ensure that the disproportionate pressure on border Member States is eased, and that a system is created which distributes asylum seekers evenly within the boundaries of objective criteria.
This vision will be realised through concrete solutions, which establish a common, swift and fair asylum procedure and reception. A fair relocation system will be triggered upon arrival, which considers personal preference, and immediate access to social, legal, medical and psychological assistance will be prioritised. Integration, and the recognition of potential contribution to society will be promoted.
We also emphasise the protection of human rights, whilst monitoring violations of those rights. A forward looking approach means that addressing the challenges of climate induced displacement, and legally recognizing climate refugees are top priorities.
Only by truly treating asylum as a European issue, instead of a national issue, can we solve its current crisis.
Recent events in the Mediterranean Sea demonstrate that asylum rights and protection must be reinforced.
The endless delay and lack of ambition of EU Member States in negotiating a functioning solidarity framework has once again costed lives
There should be a fair right to seek asylum, which upholds human rights, affords protection under the Geneva Convention, and is not outsourced to remote locations or third countries.
Safe pathways to the EU must be established in order to stop the massive losses of life due to individuals resorting to dangerous routes.
We must create a swift and safe system to register asylum seekers upon arrival. This should include efficient registration centres at EU borders, offering adequate support to vulnerable people, and protecting children by ensuring they are never detained.
We should establish a Common European Asylum system, that ensures an asylum procedure takes a maximum of 3 months from entering the country to the first decision, but which also looks after the social, legal and psychological well being of applicants.
Volt has defined 5+1 fundamental Challenges that need to be tackled in each European country and in Europe as a whole.
Why 5 + 1 Challenges?
The 5 Challenges are basically the same for every country, but their implementation can be adapted on the national level to take into account local realities.
The +1 Challenge – our proposal to reform and strengthen the EU – is identical across all our national programmes.
Education and digitalisation are key elements of the 21st century
An innovative economy must be the engine of society's progress
No-one should be left behind - no matter their gender, income, religion. or origin
Europe needs to assume responsibility for its role in global challenges
People must be empowered to influence politics beyond elections alone
We love the EU - this doesn't mean there is no room for improvement