The European Union’s (EU) pact with Egypt aimed at curbing migration has sparked concerns from the bloc’s human rights watchdog, the European Ombudsman. The €7.4 billion ($8.03 billion) agreement, finalized on March 19, 2024, is part of a broader EU strategy to reduce irregular migration arrivals. However, the Ombudsman, Emily O’Reilly, questions whether the deal adequately safeguards human rights.
A History of Migration Deals and Criticism
The EU has pursued similar agreements with several countries, including Mauritania, Tunisia, and Turkey, since 2016. These deals prioritize reduced migration flows but have faced criticism from rights groups for potentially neglecting humanitarian law. O’Reilly emphasizes the need for robust human rights safeguards before finalizing such agreements.
“The issue of fundamental rights should be addressed before finalizing any cooperation deal on migration,” O’Reilly stated at a press conference. “There should be clear outlines for redress mechanisms in case of human rights violations.”
O’Reilly further highlighted the importance of transparency in these agreements. She urged the European Commission, the executive branch responsible for such deals, to provide concrete information on how human rights concerns are being addressed.
“There’s a concern that funding is being provided, but the consequences remain unclear,” O’Reilly remarked. “We need transparency to ensure accountability.”
O’Reilly said she was not taking concrete action on the Egypt agreement since her office has yet to receive any formal complaints. But she said she was considering launching a probe into a similar EU deal with Tunisia sealed last year.
The European Commission has not yet responded to O’Reilly’s concerns. However, her statement highlights the ongoing tension between migration control and the protection of human rights.
Migration Pressures and the EU Response
According to the United Nations, approximately 34,000 people have entered the EU irregularly so far in 2024. This number is significantly lower compared to the peak of over one million arrivals in 2015, primarily driven by the Syrian conflict. However, the issue of irregular migration remains a sensitive topic for EU member states, with the upcoming European Parliament elections in June 2024 placing additional pressure on governments to demonstrate control over their borders.
The EU is likely to continue its efforts to manage irregular migration. However, O’Reilly’s intervention underscores the need to find a balance between migration control and the upholding of human rights. Increased transparency and the implementation of effective redress mechanisms can help address these concerns.
Finding a sustainable solution will require ongoing dialogue and cooperation between the EU, partner countries, and human rights organizations. By working together, these entities can strive for a future where migration management respects human dignity and upholds the rule of law.
Source: Reuters
