Title: Africa faces the challenge of becoming a subcontractor of Western migration policy
Introduction :
Western migration policy continues to become more radical, and certain European countries are now seeking to outsource this problem by making Africa their main subcontractor. Having reached agreements with countries like Rwanda, England, Denmark, Italy and Spain, the West is looking to extend this trend to other African nations. This strategy raises serious concerns within humanitarian organizations and arouses discontent among African public opinion. This article explores the issues and consequences of this outsourced migration policy.
Economic issues trump human rights:
Cooperation between the West and Africa on migration policy is driven by economic considerations rather than respect for human rights. European countries are facing high costs related to caring for migrants and are seeking urgent solutions to deal with this situation. In their quest to reduce illegal immigration, they thus give priority to economic interests rather than the protection of migrants’ rights.
The case of Rwanda:
Rwanda is one of the African countries that has quickly positioned itself as a subcontractor of Western migration policy. The Rwandan government has agreements with countries such as England and Denmark, allowing them to process asylum applications from migrants sent by these countries. In exchange, Rwanda receives a substantial financial payment. However, this policy was strongly criticized by human rights defenders and was even temporarily suspended by the English courts.
The extension of this policy to other African countries:
In addition to Rwanda, other African countries such as Tunisia are also engaged in this outsourced policy of managing asylum applications. However, this approach is strongly contested within African public opinion, which takes a dim view of Africa’s role as a subcontractor of Western migration policies. African leaders involved in these agreements are criticized for prioritizing their own economic interests over the rights and dignity of migrants.
The African Union and its silence:
As this trend strengthens, the African Union remains strangely silent on the issue. This institution should take a stand and defend the rights of African migrants rather than sacrificing them on the altar of economic interests. It is essential that the African Union speaks out and makes its voice heard to put an end to this outsourced migration policy.
Conclusion :
The rise of the West’s outsourced migration policy poses serious challenges for Africa. Beyond economic considerations, it is crucial to highlight the human rights and dignity of migrants. The African Union must play a central role in defending these principles and fighting against this policy which risks further compromising the rights of African migrants. It is time for African governments to take a stand and put an end to this subcontracting of migration policy from the West.