Fatshimetrie, Oct. 18, 2024 (ACP/Xinhua) – The recent meeting of the 27 heads of state of the European Union in Brussels was marked by crucial discussions on the issue of migration. In the face of persistent migratory pressures, European leaders expressed their concern about the effective return of irregular migrants to their countries of origin.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, stressed that despite the adoption of the Asylum-Migration Pact, only 20 percent of individuals ordered to leave the territory actually return to their countries of origin. This reality has prompted the EU to consider new legislation to more effectively return irregular migrants, with the aim of better controlling migratory flows and combating criminal activities and human trafficking.
In this vein, European leaders affirmed their commitment to strengthen the surveillance of the EU’s external borders and to work with international actors such as the Office of the Commissioner for Refugees and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to better understand and counter the routes taken by irregular migrants.
Furthermore, the issue of migrants stranded in North Africa was also discussed, with the EU considering financial support to the IOM to facilitate the return of these individuals to their countries of origin. This comprehensive approach aims to establish effective and humane return mechanisms, while addressing the root causes of forced migration.
In parallel, the meeting also addressed ongoing international conflicts, notably in Ukraine and the Middle East. European heads of state called for increased support for a just peace in Ukraine, while the EU reaffirmed its commitment to the two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In short, the EU Summit in Brussels highlighted the need for a coordinated and united approach to address the challenges of migration and international conflicts. By taking concrete measures and strengthening cooperation with relevant actors, the EU seeks to promote stability and security at home and beyond, in a spirit of responsibility and international solidarity.