Council of EU says Schengen rules might need to be developed

PanARMENIAN.Net - The upheavals in North Africa have led to massive migratory movements towards the EU. More than 25 000 migrants, mainly from Tunisia, have fled towards the EU, with Italy and Malta as key destinations. Based on a communication on migration from the Commission, the Council on 12 May discussed various questions relating to this inflow of people in particular, and to the EU's migration and asylum policy in general.

The pressure on the EU's southern borders continues to be a cause of concern, both regarding the humanitarian situation and irregular migration. It has confirmed that there is a need for a strong common immigration and asylum policy and efficient controls at the external borders.

If the EU wishes to maintain its social welfare model, better targeted immigration is necessary in order to make up for the expected labor and skills shortages caused by Europe's ageing population. Dealing firmly and effectively with irregular migration is a precondition for a credible migration policy. At the same time, a strategic approach for relations with non-EU countries on issues relating to migration, mobility and security should be developed, the Council of the European Union said on its official website.

To avert irregular immigration, member states' control of each section of the EU's external borders must be efficient. The Schengen rules, which abolish border controls and guarantee passport-free movement inside the Schengen area, might need to be developed. Amendments to the Schengen evaluation system have already been proposed. Furthermore, the Commission in its communication hints at the need to broaden possibilities for the temporary reintroduction of internal border controls, in the event of emergencies, and as a last resort.

Finally, the Common European Asylum System should be completed by 2012. Its main purpose is to reduce divergences in the outcome of applications lodged in different countries of the EU, and ensure fair treatment and common rights to all applicants.