Theo Francken and Assita Kanko: “The current European Pact on Migration and Asylum is unworkable”

In a joint statement, former State Secretary Theo Francken and MEP Assita Kanko express their concern about the European Pact on Migration and Asylum on which the European Parliament and the Member States recently reached an agreement. They point out fundamental shortcomings: “The basic philosophy of this policy is a huge strategic mistake.”

“Although certain aspects are positive steps in the right direction, the basic philosophy behind this policy remains a huge strategic mistake. The Pact is based on an open asylum border after illegal entry into Europe, which in reality remains an attractive option for illegal migrants,” Francken explains. “Aside from that, the idea of rapid screening and return at the European external border is not new and has not led to success in the past. Countries such as Greece and Italy have struggled to cope adequately with the immense flow of migrants. The risk of chaos remains,” says Kanko.

“Rapid return” is fake news

“The narrative of rapid return is, unfortunately, institutionalised fake news,” adds Francken. “The geopolitical tensions between North and South will make its implementation more difficult. We must find realistic and effective solutions, not empty promises.” Both also criticise the Pact’s “spread or buy off” mechanism. Kanko notes: “Forcing Member States to accept a certain number of asylum seekers, or otherwise pay a Fee A fee is remuneration requested by the government for a specific service that it provides. The difference between a fee and taxes is that there is an immediate service provided in return for a fee. An example is the parking charges that the municipalities can enforce. They can carry out the collection thereof themselves, or contract this out. fee , creates an unworkable situation that does not constitute a sustainable solution to the migration issue.”

The Australian approach

Francken concludes with a call for a different approach: “We advocate the Australian approach that discourages illegal migration by closing borders and avoids rewarding illegal entry with the right of residence. At the same time, we must give genuine refugees the opportunity to start a new life in Europe in a way that is safe and legal.”

Border policy and humanity

The N-VA emphasises that a border policy and humanity need not be contradictory and advocates an approach that recognises both European values and the reality of migration.