Migration and Human Rights session – Macif

Between managing external borders, asylum challenges and respecting fundamental rights, the European Union must take crucial decisions in the face of current migration issues. With political tensions mounting and solutions being sought to improve cooperation between Member States, how can we ensure a fair system that respects human rights?

At our february session, several experts highlighted the challenges facing European migration policy. Yves Pascouau emphasised the importance of Schengen in building a Europe for citizens, while pointing out that external border management remains one of the most integrated aspects of the EU. François Thomas, president of SOS Méditerranée, spoke of the tragic consequences of the reduction in crossings, with increased mortality at sea. Fabienne Keller, Member of the European Parliament, pointed to the flaws in the Dublin system, particularly the lack of cooperation between Member States and the deplorable reception conditions for asylum seekers. Finally, Monique Pariat responded to alarmist rhetoric about ‘migration overload’, emphasising that two-thirds of asylum seekers had entered the EU legally.

The speakers delivered a unanimous message: the migration issue must not be left to extremists, and respect for human rights must remain an absolute priority.