Migration: European leaders must focus on implementation over false new projects

The Renew Europe group has called on European leaders not to be distracted by ‘white elephants’ when looking for solutions to migration and asylum challenges and instead remain focused on the implementation of existing agreements.

Renew Europe calls on EUCO to agree the expedited implementation of the agreed migration and asylum pact. Frontex should receive additional financing to secure the Union’s borders. Loopholes need to be closed on the returns directive and returns policies need to be enhanced with strategic, transparent and legally sound agreements with third countries of transit and origin, conditioned to the full respect of human rights and the dignity of all.

Putin’s weaponisation of migrants, via Russia and Belarus, is unacceptable and Europe must stand united with Poland, Finland and Baltic member states. Hybrid warfare is best countered with new resources and workable measures.

Valérie Hayer, President of Renew Europe, said ahead of the EUCO:

"We need to focus on implementing the agreed migration and asylum pact faster, strengthening Frontex and securing workable returns agreements, instead of misleading projects. Unilateral national actions and populist rhetoric borrowed from the far-right are jeopardising the common European approach we need."

Commenting on the situation in Ukraine and the visit of President Zelenskyy, Valérie Hayer said:

"A victory for Ukraine would be a victory for all of Europe. In our unwavering support, we call for the full-fledged enforcement of sanctions to cut down Russia's ability to wage war. Putin must know that the resolve of democratic nations has no shelf life."

Renew Europe has obtained a debate in the European Parliament next week on EU actions against the Russian shadow fleets and ensuring a full enforcement of sanctions against Russia, followed by an official resolution in November.