A New Common Migration Policy for the EU ‒ Why and How?

The unfair distribution of responsibility for asylum seekers between EU member states under the “Dublin system” has long been a bone of contention in the Common European Asylum System. In April 2024, the EU Parliament approved the controversial migration and asylum package after lengthy negotiations. The rules for illegal immigrants in particular were significantly tightened. However, a balanced and comprehensive migration concept must address very different objectives: EU member states not only want to prevent irregular migration, but also recruit highly skilled workers. The protection of human rights is paramount. In a single market with freedom of movement, it is necessary to go beyond the 27 national immigration policies. A common European migration policy can make immigration rules simpler, less bureaucratic and more transparent for immigrants and the relevant authorities. In addition, a coordinated approach enables better access to education, language courses and employment opportunities for migrants. This facilitates their integration into the European labor market and their social inclusion.

The authors of this issue of EconPol Forum shed light on why the results of the EU’s migration policy to date have not yet been satisfactory and why Europe now needs a new, better coordinated policy. They make policy proposals on how the EU can improve the quality of legislation and on how more intensive European cooperation can improve the enforcement of existing regulations.