On 7th of June, the European Commission published a series of initiatives relating to tackling the migration influx including a ‘’New partnership framework’’ through which the EU will seek partnership with third country of origin and transit (Jordan, Mali, Niger, Ethiopia, Lebanon, Senegal and Nigeria) to stem the flow of irregular migrants. This new partnership framework is widely criticised as it seems to mirror the EU-Turkey agreement in ‘’outsourcing’’ the management of the migration increase to external boarders countries. The respect of human rights and international humanitarian law is mentioned as a priority for the European Commission but the reality of its implementation in the proposed partnership framework is must more questionable.
The Action Plan on the Integration of Third-Country Nationals is a ‘’framework for action’’ which proposes concrete initiatives to support Member States in the integration of the ‘’20 million non-EU nationals residing legally in the EU’’.
The competence for integration policy lies primarily with the Member States, but the EU wants to play a role is facilitating Member States’ work on the integration of third country nationals. The Action Plan includes actions supporting pre-departure and pre-arrival measures, education, employment and vocational training, access to basic services, active participation and social inclusion.
The last European Commission proposal on 7th June was the revision of the EU Blue Card Directive concerning the framework for the immigration of highly skilled workers. The proposal aims to improve the EU’s ability to attract and retain highly skilled workers, in order to enhance the competitiveness of its economy and cope with demographic challenges.
For more information, please see the European Commission fact sheets on:
A new partnership framework here (EN).
The action plan on the integration of third-country nationals here (EN).
Revision of the EU Blue Card Directive here (EN).