Commission Presents an EU Action Plan for Central Mediterranean to Address Migration Challenges
In order to be able to effectively tackle the challenges on this particular migratory route, the Commission has proposed a series of 20 measures in the Action Plan. These measures are articulated around three pillars, which will be taken forward by the Member States and the EU itself, AtoZSerwisPlus.com reports.
According to the Commission, the measures are designed to decrease unsafe and illegal migration and provide solutions to the challenges in the area of search and rescue. In addition, the measures are also designed to reinforce solidarity balanced against Member States’ responsibility.
Explaining the measures set out in the Action Plan, the Commission said that it is of prime importance for the countries and the international organisations to reinforce their cooperation in order to be able to address migration challenges.
“The EU will strengthen the capacities of Tunisia, Egypt and Libya to ensure better border management and management of migration. It will reinforce the fight against migrant smuggling and enhance diplomatic engagement on returns while stepping up legal pathways to the EU,” the statement of the EU Commission reads.
Moreover, the Action Plan also proposed measures aimed at strengthening the cooperation between the EU Member States and actors engaged in search and rescue activities in the Central Mediterranean migratory route by using the European Contact Group on Search and Rescue.
It has been further noted that the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) will also assist the concerned Member States to perform an assessment of the situation in the Central Mediterranean. Furthermore, the Commission suggested that discussions should also be encouraged in the International Maritime Organisation.
Apart from the above-mentioned, the EU’s Action plan for the Central Mediterranean migratory route also proposes to speed up the mechanism’s implementation and provide support to the Member States that receive arrivals by sea. According to the Commission, by doing so, the authorities will be able to streamline processes, enhance flexibility, and implement the financing of alternative solidarity measures.
The Commission is expected to present the Action Plan to the Council of the EU on November 25. Regarding the other migratory routes to Europe, including those along Türkiye and the Western Mediterranean, as well as the Western Balkan route, the Commission stressed that the EU will remain vigilant about developments.
