Politics
European Parliament Press Kit for the European Council of 21 and 22 March 2024 | News
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola will represent the European Parliament at the summit, address the heads of state or government at 15.00, and hold a press conference after her speech.
When: Press conference at around 16.00 on 21 March
Where: European Council press room and via Parliament’s webstreaming or EbS.
At their meeting in Brussels, heads of state or government will focus on Russia’s war against Ukraine and the EU’s continued support for the country, the war in the Gaza Strip, European security and defence, enlargement, the EU’s response to the current concerns in the agricultural sector and on economic coordination.
Russia’s war against Ukraine
In a joint statement issued on 23 February, the Presidents of the EU institutions stressed that “the European Union will always support Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.
Russia and its leadership bear sole responsibility for this war and its global consequences, as well as for the serious crimes committed. We remain determined to hold them to account, including for the crime of aggression. (…)
The European Union will continue its strong and unwavering political, military, financial, economic, diplomatic and humanitarian support to help Ukraine defend itself, protect its people, its cities and its critical infrastructure, restore its territorial integrity, bring back the thousands of deported children, and bring the war to an end.
We will continue to address Ukraine’s pressing military and defence needs, including deliveries of urgently needed ammunition and missiles. (…) We are also working on future security commitments which will help Ukraine defend itself, resist destabilisation efforts and deter acts of aggression in the future.”
In a resolution adopted on 29 February, MEPs took stock of the two years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022. Highlighting how the war has fundamentally changed the geopolitical situation in Europe and beyond, they say the main objective is for Ukraine to win the war, warning of serious consequences if that does not happen. MEPs say that other authoritarian regimes are watching how the conflict develops to assess their own leeway for enacting aggressive foreign policies.
For Kyiv to win the war, there should be “no self-imposed restriction on military assistance to Ukraine”, with Parliament reaffirming the need to provide the country with whatever is needed to regain full control over its internationally recognised territory.
All EU and NATO allies should support Ukraine militarily with no less than 0.25% of their GDP annually, MEPs argue, while urging EU countries to immediately enter into dialogue with defence companies to ensure increased production and deliveries of ammunition, shells and missiles to Ukraine, which should be prioritised over orders from other third countries
The resolution underlines the urgent need for a solid legal regime to allow Russian state-owned assets frozen by the EU to be confiscated and used for reconstruction in Ukraine and the compensation of victims of the war. Russia must be obliged to pay reparations imposed on it to ensure that it contributes substantially to rebuilding Ukraine.
On 12 March, Parliament adopted a directive, agreed with member states, on criminalising the violation and circumvention of EU sanctions. It will introduce a common definition of, and minimum penalties for, violations.
EU sanctions can consist of freezing funds and assets (including crypto-assets), travel bans, arms embargoes, and restrictions on business sectors. While sanctions are adopted at the EU level, enforcement relies on member states, amongst which the definitions of sanction violations and associated penalties vary. The new law sets consistent definitions for violations, which would include acts such as not freezing funds, not respecting travel bans or arms embargoes, transferring funds to persons subject to sanctions, or doing business with state-owned entities of countries under sanction. Providing financial services or legal advisory services in violation of sanctions will also become a punishable offence.
The directive ensures the punishment for violating and circumventing sanctions is dissuasive by making them criminal offences carrying prison sentences of a maximum of five years in all member states.
In a resolution adopted on 29 February, the European Parliament strongly condemns the murder of Alexei Navalny and gives its full support to Yulia Navalnaya in her determination to continue his work. MEPs stress that the full criminal and political responsibility for his death lies with the Russian state, and its president Vladimir Putin in particular, who should be held accountable.
Stressing that the people of Russia cannot be confused with the “warmongering, autocratic and kleptocratic regime of the Kremlin”, MEPs call on the EU and its member states to continue to show unfailing solidarity and actively support independent Russian civil society and the democratic opposition.
Parliament demands that the EU, its member states and likeminded partners around the world continue their political, economic, financial, and military support for Ukraine as the best answer to the current oppressive and aggressive practices by the Kremlin regime. Ukraine’s decisive victory may lead to genuine changes in the Russian Federation, in particular deimperialisation, decolonialisation and refederalisation, all of which are necessary conditions for establishing democracy in Russia.
Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of murdered Russian anti-corruption activist Alexei Navalny, addressed the European Parliament on 28 February.
In her speech, Ms Navalnaya accused Russian authorities, led by President Vladimir Putin, of having orchestrated Mr Navalny’s killing. She said that his public murder had once again shown everyone that “Putin is capable of anything and that you cannot negotiate with him”. She also expressed concern that none of the EU’s current restrictive measures have stopped Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.
To this end, Ms Navalnaya called for more innovative ideas to defeat Putin’s regime, both domestically and its actions towards its neighbours. “If you really want to defeat Putin, you have to become an innovator (…). You cannot hurt Putin with another resolution or another set of sanctions that is no different from the previous ones (…). You are not dealing with a politician but with a bloody mobster (…). The most important thing is the people close to Putin, his friends, associates, and keepers of the mafia’s money (…). You, and all of us, must fight this criminal gang.”
Further reading
Joint Statement by the Presidents of the European Union Institutions on the occasion of the 2 year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine
Parliament calls on the EU to give Ukraine whatever it needs to defeat Russia
EU sanctions: new rules to crack down on violations
MEPs: EU must actively support Russia’s democratic opposition
Yulia Navalnaya: “If you want to defeat Putin, fight his criminal gang”
Debate 12 March 2024: Preparation of the European Council meeting of 21 and 22 March 2024
Debate 13 March 2024: Need to address the urgent concerns surrounding Ukrainian children forcibly deported to Russia
Parliament wants tougher enforcement of EU sanctions against Russia
A long-term solution for Ukraine’s funding needs
How the EU is supporting Ukraine
EU stands with Ukraine
MEPs to contact
David McALLISTER, (EPP, DE), Chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs
Nathalie LOISEAU (Renew, FR), Chair of the Subcommittee on Security and Defence
Michael GAHLER (EPP, DE), standing rapporteur on Ukraine
Andrius KUBILIUS (EPP, LT), standing rapporteur on Russia
Sophie in ’t Veld (Renew, the Netherlands), rapporteur on the violation of Union restrictive measures
War in the Gaza Strip
In a resolution adopted on 14 March, MEPs call on Israel to immediately allow and facilitate full aid delivery into and throughout Gaza via all existing crossings, underlining the urgent need for rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access.
They reiterate their call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire to address the looming risk of mass starvation in Gaza and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. The International Committee of the Red Cross must be given immediate access to all Israeli hostages being held in Gaza to provide them with medical care.
There can be no prospect of peace, security, stability and prosperity for Gaza or for Palestinian-Israeli reconciliation, MEPs warn, as long as Hamas and other terrorist groups play any role in Gaza.
Parliament also strongly condemns the rise in extremist settler violence and attacks by the Israeli armed forces against Palestinians in the West Bank, attacks that have already killed hundreds and injured thousands of Palestinian civilians. MEPs strongly condemn the acceleration of the illegal settlement of Palestinian land, which constitutes a violation of international law. They are deeply concerned about the risk of escalation in the conflict, in particular in Lebanon.
In a resolution adopted on 18 January, Parliament condemned in the strongest possible terms the despicable terrorist attacks committed by Hamas against Israel. MEPs also denounced the disproportionate Israeli military response, which has caused a civilian death toll on an unprecedented scale.
Israel has the right to defend itself within the limits of international law, they stress, which implies that all parties in a conflict must distinguish, at all times, between combatants and civilians, that attacks must only be directed at military objectives, and that civilians and civilian objects must not be targeted in the attacks.
The resolution also calls for a European initiative to put the two-state solution back on track and emphasises the absolute necessity of immediately relaunching the peace process. It welcomes the European Union and the Arab League’s Peace Day Effort for Middle East Peace, which was launched just before the attacks took place on 7 October.
Further reading
Parliament calls on Israel to open all crossings to Gaza for humanitarian aid
Israel-Hamas war: MEPs call for a permanent ceasefire under two conditions
MEPs condemn Hamas attack on Israel and call for a humanitarian pause
Resolution: The despicable terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israel, Israel’s right to defend itself in line with humanitarian and international law and the humanitarian situation in Gaza
President Metsola at the European Council: EU must remain coherent and united
Leading MEPs condemn attack by Hamas terrorists against Israel
MEPs to contact
David McALLISTER, (EPP, DE), Chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs
European security and defence
In two reports on the EU’s foreign, security and defence policy, adopted on 28 February, MEPs warn that the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has sparked a series of global economic shocks and added significant destabilising pressure on countries in the Western Balkans and the Eastern Partnership.
They want the EU to reform its neighbourhood policy and accelerate the enlargement process, while advancing institutional and decision-making reforms, including the publication of a roadmap for future work by the summer of 2024. MEPs urge the EU to improve its capacity to act in response to, as well as to pre-empt, global crises.
With US-China competition as a backdrop, Parliament is concerned about the increasing relevance of more exclusive formats of cooperation and emphasises that traditional multilateral forums – in particular the UN and its agencies –should be the EU’s preferred forums for cooperation.
With the focus on Russia’s illegal, unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine, Parliament highlights the role played by Iran, Belarus, North Korea and China in supporting the Kremlin’s war machine. MEPs say Russia’s war is part of a wider strategy to undermine the rules-based international order and underline that the EU will continue to support Kyiv with the necessary military means to end the conflict.
MEPs also demand an increase to and acceleration of the EU’s financial and military assistance, stressing that Ukraine’s military victory and the country’s future integration in the EU and NATO are necessary to guarantee Europe’s security, stability and sustainable peace.
Further reading
Foreign policy, security and defence: the EU should focus on strategic alliances
MEPs to contact
Nathalie LOISEAU (Renew, FR), Chair of the Subcommittee on Security and Defence
David McAllister (EPP, Germany), Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee and rapporteur on the Common Foreign and Security Policy
Sven Mikser (S&D, Estonia), rapporteur on the common security and defence policy
Enlargement
On 19 March, MEPs on the Committee on Foreign Affairs discussed the future of EU enlargement with the foreign ministers of Austria, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia and the deputy ministers or secretaries of state of Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Greece and Hungary.
In the 2023 annual report on Common Foreign and Security Policy, MEPs warn that the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has significantly destabilised countries in the Western Balkans and the Eastern Partnership. According to the report, this jeopardises EU security. To address this, MEPs recommend that the EU reforms its neighbourhood policy and accelerates the enlargement process.
In February, Parliament adopted a report calling for institutional and financial reforms to ensure the EU’s capacity to absorb new members. With the Ukraine Facility, it approved long-term funding for Ukraine to aid its recovery and modernisation efforts and to help it on its way to EU membership. MEPs also supported the Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans to bolster the EU’s partners in the region by facilitating extensive socio-economic reforms, enhancing rule of law fundamental rights, and accelerating the economic alignment of these partners with the EU standards.
In a resolution adopted on 13 December, Parliament called the EU’s enlargement policy one of the strongest geopolitical tools at its disposal and a strategic investment in peace and security. MEPs are urging the European Council to open accession negotiations with Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova. Provided that certain steps are taken, MEPs say that accession talks should also be opened with Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Georgia should be granted candidate status.
MEPs also stress that the EU should establish a clear enlargement timetable for candidate countries to conclude accession negotiations by 2030. There should, however, be no fast-track route to membership. MEPs insist that the so-called Copenhagen criteria must be fulfilled to ensure that candidate and potential candidate countries demonstrate a consistent and enduring commitment to democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for the protection of minorities, and economic reforms.
Further reading
Serbia and Kosovo must work to de-escalate the situation in northern Kosovo
Montenegro’s EU accession progress is losing momentum
Parliament pushes for start of EU accession talks with Moldova
MEPs call on EU and Türkiye to look for alternative ways to cooperate
MEPs assess the situation in Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina
MEPs to contact
David McAllister (EPP, Germany), Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee
Tonino Picula (S&D, HR), rapporteur on Montenegro
Nacho Sánchez Amor (S&D, ES), rapporteur on Türkiye
Isabel Santos (S&D, PT), rapporteur on Albania
Paulo Rangel (EPP, PT), rapporteur on Bosnia and Herzegovina
Agriculture
The Commission’s simplification package for farmers and the contribution of the agricultural sector to the EU’s climate objectives were discussed in two debates with commissioners in the Agriculture Committee on 19 March. MEPs debated with the Commissioner for Agriculture, Janusz Wojciechowski, actions that the Commission is proposing to reduce the administrative burden on farmers. MEPs discussed the agricultural sector’s contribution to the EU’s climate objectives with the Commissioner for Climate Action, Wopke Hoekstra.
The debate with Commissioner Wojciechowski follows an exchange of views on the same topic MEPs had with Commission representatives during a committee meeting on 26 February. Link to re-watch the exchange.
In a letter sent on 20 February to Commissioner Wojciechowski, the Chair of the Agriculture Committee, Norbert Lins (EPP, DE), supported by the majority of political groups, put forward proposals to tackle current difficulties encountered by European farmers.
A plenary debate about sustainable and fairly-rewarded EU agriculture took place on 7 February. Link to re-watch the debate.
On 12 March, MEPs debated the need to impose sanctions on the import of Russian and Belarusian food and agricultural products to the EU and to ensure stability of EU agricultural production. You can watch the debate here.
MEPs to contact
Norbert Lins (EPP, DE), Chair of the Agriculture Committee
European economic coordination
On 13 March, MEPs adopted a resolution outlining their concerns and priorities for the next cycle of economic coordination between member states. They expressed their concerns about the economic situation, persistent economic uncertainty, and weak growth, competitiveness and productivity in the EU.
MEPs add that many member states are suffering from structural challenges that hinder their growth potential and that a lack of public and private investment in certain member states is blocking the potential for socially balanced and sustainable growth. They also stress that sufficient public investment is crucial to achieve the main objectives of the reform of the EU’s economic governance framework and to address the current and future priorities of the Union, such as financing the green and digital transitions.
Further reading
European economic coordination: Prioritise prudent investment and reform EU economies, MEPs say
MEPs to contact
René Repasi (S&D, DE), rapporteur
Politics
How To Promote Solidarity – Shared Migration Policies Within The EU
Most EU citizens seek a peaceful coexistence in a diverse society, yet the complexities surrounding migration policies can create division. Understanding the importance of solidarity in shared migration policies is vital for fostering a more inclusive environment. In this post, you will discover effective methods to advocate for unity while navigating the challenges of migration, ensuring that your voice contributes to a positive change across Europe. By implementing these strategies, you can play a pivotal role in shaping a compassionate, welcoming future for migrants and host communities alike.
Understanding Solidarity
While the concept of solidarity within the European Union (EU) is often viewed as a moral imperative, it is integral to the efficacy of shared migration policies. Solidarity encourages cooperation among member states, fostering a sense of shared responsibility. This is particularly significant in the context of migration, where challenges can be unevenly distributed. A united approach enables the EU to respond more effectively to humanitarian crises and to support those nations that face disproportionate pressures from incoming migrants.
The Importance of Solidarity in Migration Policies
To understand the dynamics of migration within the EU, it is imperative to recognise that solidarity is not just a philosophical notion but a practical necessity. By working together, member states can develop robust migration frameworks that ensure the humane treatment of migrants while maintaining national security. Solidarity embodies shared values—human rights, dignity, and respect—that are integral to the fabric of European identity. This commitment can galvanise collective action aimed at creating more comprehensive solutions.
Key Factors Influencing Solidarity Within the EU
An array of factors shapes the level of solidarity among EU member states, influencing their migration policies. These factors include economic disparities, political climates, historical contexts, and public attitudes towards migrants. To reinforce solidarity, it is vital to address inequality by ensuring that resources are equitably shared. Furthermore, fostering a sense of community among European nations can enhance collaborative efforts in responding to migration issues. The interplay of these elements often determines the degree of political will to act in harmony.
- economic disparities
- political climates
- historical contexts
- public attitudes
Policies that reinforce solidarity must actively engage with varying historical narratives and national identities that shape public perceptions of migration. Engaging communities through education and outreach can help dispel myths and build empathy towards migrants. Additionally, encouraging governments to create inclusive frameworks will lead to better integration of migrants into local societies. A concerted effort is needed to pursue policies that reflect the shared values of the EU while addressing the real concerns of member states.
- inclusive frameworks
- public perceptions
- community engagement
- collaborative action
Knowing how these factors interact not only enhances your understanding of solidarity but also empowers you to advocate for better policies that uphold the values and principles of the European Union.
How To Promote Solidarity
Any efforts to promote solidarity within the EU should begin by establishing effective policies that are tailored to the unique needs of each member state while considering the broader picture. Cooperation between nations can be facilitated through shared migration policies that prioritise human rights and ensure that the challenges faced by migrants are met with compassion and pragmatism. To achieve this, you need to foster open dialogue amongst decision-makers that will allow for *mutual understanding* and *collective responsibility*. Your ability to advocate for these shared goals can significantly influence the effectiveness of policies that promote integration and social cohesion.
Tips for Policy Makers
With practical strategies in mind, your role as a policy maker requires actionable steps to strengthen the EU’s commitment to solidarity. Consider implementing the following ideas:
- Encourage bilateral agreements between member states to address specific migration challenges.
- Promote funding initiatives to support local projects aimed at migrant integration.
- Facilitate public awareness campaigns that highlight the contributions of migrants to society.
- Implement training programmes for officials to better serve diverse communities.
Thou must persistently advocate for a culture of solidarity through unwavering commitment and innovative practices.
Community Engagement Strategies
Now, engaging with communities is pivotal in fostering a collective sense of responsibility towards migrants. By actively involving local residents in initiatives, you can create an environment where everyone feels valued, and misconceptions are dismantled. This can be achieved through collaborative projects, community events, and open forums that not only educate but also empower individuals to act. You should focus on fostering relationships between migrants and locals, thereby enhancing social cohesion and mutual respect within the community.
Solidarity can be cultivated through active participation in community-led initiatives, ensuring that both migrants and locals share their experiences and challenges. By creating safe spaces for dialogue, you effectively dismantle barriers and enable the development of a united front against discrimination and xenophobia. It is imperative to emphasise that involving both groups in decision-making processes strengthens community bonds and lays the groundwork for more inclusive policies. This communal effort not only illustrates the importance of shared values but also champions a positive narrative that all can rally behind.
Establishing Shared Migration Policies
It is imperative to create a coherent framework for migration policies within the EU that fosters mutual benefit and addresses the needs of both migrants and host countries. This necessitates the establishment of shared migration policies that facilitate cooperation among member states. Your engagement in discussions surrounding Solidarity under EU asylum policy with the New Pact on … will play a significant role in shaping these policies. A unifying approach not only addresses humanitarian concerns but also enhances the overall stability of the EU, fostering solidarity during times of increased migration pressures.
Best Practices for Implementation
Now is the time for you to turn theory into practice by focusing on successful case studies within the EU. For instance, collaborative initiatives that champion both local community support and migrant integration have worked effectively in various member states. These best practices showcase how local authorities can engage citizens in welcoming migrants, thus mitigating social tensions and enhancing public acceptance. You can facilitate these initiatives by sharing resources and fostering partnerships between local governments and NGOs to ensure your migration policies are effectively implemented.
Overcoming Challenges in Policy Development
Any attempts to develop shared migration policies will inevitably face challenges, from political reluctance to logistical barriers. You must acknowledge that differing national priorities and perspectives on migration can create a complex environment in which policy cohesion is difficult to achieve. Collaborative approaches that promote understanding and address common goals are necessary for overcoming these hurdles.
Best practices include intentional dialogue between member states, ensuring clear communication of objectives, and fostering a spirit of cooperation. By understanding that challenges such as differing economic conditions or public sentiment towards migrants can jeopardise successful policy implementation, you equip yourself with the knowledge to advocate for solutions. With the right strategies in place, the EU can transform these challenges into opportunities for a more integrated and peaceful approach to migration policy.
Enhancing Collaboration Among Member States
To foster effective migration policies across the EU, you must recognise that collaboration among member states is necessary. By working collectively, you can share resources, strategies, and best practices, significantly improving the handling of migration challenges. This cooperation not only strengthens the policies in place but also promotes a sense of solidarity, enabling you to create a more cohesive approach to migration management throughout the EU.
Building Networks for Support
On the journey towards more integrated migration policies, building networks among member states is paramount. As you engage with other nations, you can establish partnerships that facilitate mutual support and create a unified front against the complexities of migration. By connecting with various stakeholders, you can share experiences and solutions, leading to improved outcomes for both migrants and receiving communities.
Facilitating Information Exchange
States must prioritise the sharing of vital information regarding migration patterns, policies, and best practices. Through enhanced communication channels, you can better understand the challenges faced by other member states and the solutions they have implemented. This knowledge exchange empowers you to adopt more effective approaches, thereby strengthening your migration framework.
Facilitating information exchange should involve the creation of centralised databases and platforms where you can access and share data freely. By making relevant information readily available, you ensure that your policies are informed by the latest developments and challenges faced by other EU countries. This collaborative effort diminishes the risk of overlapping strategies and promotes tailored responses to migration issues, ultimately leading to a more effective, cohesive policy framework across the European Union.
Monitoring and Evaluating Solidarity Efforts
Many countries within the EU are learning that effective monitoring and evaluation systems are imperative for assessing the implementation and impact of solidarity in shared migration policies. You must ensure that these systems are not just perfunctory; instead, they should provide you with meaningful insights into how policies affect migrants and host communities alike. This also includes analysing the social, economic, and cultural implications of your solidarity efforts, allowing you to refine your strategies continually. Without such systems in place, it would be nearly impossible to gauge the effectiveness of the initiatives undertaken and identify areas that require improvement.
Assessment Metrics
Assuming you want to assess the impact of your solidarity measures accurately, implementing a robust set of assessment metrics is indispensable. These metrics should encompass both qualitative and quantitative measures that evaluate not only the immediate outcomes of your policies but also their long-term sustainability. For example, tracking the rates of integration of migrants, their access to health and education services, and public perceptions of migrants can provide a valuable snapshot of how your shared policies are performing. Ensuring that these metrics are aligned with EU-wide standards will facilitate cross-country comparisons and enhance accountability.
Adapting Policies Based on Feedback
For your policies to remain effective, you need to remain flexible and open to incorporating feedback from various stakeholders, including migrants themselves. By establishing feedback loops, you can gain invaluable insights into the lived experiences of those impacted by your initiatives. This adaptive approach enables you to identify what works, what doesn’t, and where adjustments are necessary to improve the overall effectiveness of your shared migration policies.
Another important aspect of adapting policies based on feedback is the involvement of local communities and organisations. Engaging with these stakeholders allows you to draw upon their expertise and ground-level observations, thereby enriching your understanding of the challenges faced by migrants. Furthermore, listening to different voices enhances community cohesion and reduces resistance to migratory policies, ultimately leading to more effective and inclusive approaches that benefit everyone involved. In such a manner, your solidarity efforts can evolve and better respond to the dynamic landscape of migration in the EU.
Encouraging Public Support for Migration Solidarity
Now, fostering a supportive environment for migration solidarity within communities begins with effective communication. By raising awareness and understanding about the benefits of migration, you can help reshape the narrative around this important issue. Engaging in public discussions, social media campaigns, and local events will allow you to highlight how migration enriches your society, contributes to the economy, and fosters diversity. When individuals can see the tangible positive impacts of migration, they may become more inclined to support shared migration policies.
Raising Awareness and Understanding
Solidarity is rooted in knowledge, and promoting a better understanding of migration can significantly enhance public support. You can take the initiative to organise workshops, informational sessions, or community forums where people can learn about the real stories and experiences of migrants. Sharing statistics and evidence of how migrants contribute positively to your community can dispel myths and misconceptions. By transforming fear and uncertainty into informed opinions, you empower your peers to support migration solidarity actively.
Addressing Misconceptions and Fears
Any efforts to build solidarity must address the misconceptions and fears surrounding migration. Many people harbour irrational fears about migrants taking jobs or infringing on community resources. You can play a pivotal role in dismantling these arguments by providing data that demonstrates how migrants often fill critical gaps in the labour market and contribute to economic growth. Engaging with sceptics through informed conversations can create a more receptive atmosphere for shared migration policies.
Support for migration solidarity requires a proactive approach in tackling the general misconceptions that might pervade your community. It is vital to show that the integration of migrants often leads to a more vibrant, culturally rich environment, counterbalancing misplaced fears of resource competition. Highlighting personal stories of migrants can foster empathy, and reminding your peers that we all share common human experiences can pave the way for a more supportive stance towards shared migration policies. Your voice and actions can significantly affect how migration is perceived and supported within the community.
Conclusion
With this in mind, it is crucial that you actively engage in the promotion of solidarity across shared migration policies within the EU. By advocating for comprehensive strategies that facilitate the fair distribution of migrants and refugees, you can contribute to a more unified approach among member states. Fostering partnerships that encourage collaboration will not only enhance the overall resilience of the European Union but also strengthen the social fabric of your local communities, ensuring that integration and support mechanisms are effectively implemented.
Furthermore, by staying informed and educating others about the benefits of solidarity in migration, you can play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and policy. Emphasising the shared responsibilities among nations can lead to a more empathetic response to the challenges faced by migrants. By participating in discussions, raising awareness, and supporting initiatives aimed at reinforcing solidarity, you empower yourself and others to contribute to a more harmonious and equitable European Union, setting a positive precedent for future generations.
FAQ
Q: What is the concept of solidarity in relation to migration policies within the EU?
A: Solidarity within the context of EU migration policies refers to the collective responsibility of member states to support and assist each other in managing migration effectively. This involves sharing the burdens and benefits of migration, ensuring that all countries contribute to the integration and support of migrants, regardless of their individual circumstances or capabilities.
Q: Why is shared migration policy important for EU member states?
A: Shared migration policy is vital for EU member states as it promotes a unified approach to handling migration challenges. By collaborating, countries can enhance their capacity to provide humanitarian assistance, maintain security, and leverage resources effectively. It also helps prevent situations where some countries bear a disproportionately high burden of migration, fostering a sense of unity and mutual support among nations.
Q: What strategies can EU countries adopt to foster solidarity in migration policies?
A: EU countries can adopt various strategies to encourage solidarity, such as establishing fair relocation mechanisms for asylum seekers, creating joint funding initiatives to support local integration efforts, and sharing best practices regarding migrant services. Additionally, fostering dialogue and cooperation among member states can help to build trust and ensure a coordinated response to migration challenges.
Q: How can civil society contribute to promoting solidarity in EU migration policies?
A: Civil society plays a significant role in promoting solidarity by voicing the needs and rights of migrants, mobilising public opinion, and advocating for inclusive policies. Non-governmental organisations and community groups can provide vital support services to migrants, facilitating their integration. Furthermore, they can work with governments to influence policy formation and promote a culture of understanding and acceptance towards migration.
Q: What role does public perception play in the success of shared migration policies in the EU?
A: Public perception is a significant factor in the success of shared migration policies within the EU. Positive public attitudes towards migrants and the benefits of migration can enhance support for solidarity initiatives. Conversely, negative perceptions can lead to resistance against migration policies. Education and awareness campaigns can help to dispel myths and foster a more inclusive environment, thereby promoting the success of shared migration efforts across member states.
Politics
Kosovo- Statement by the Spokesperson on the latest developments
EU Warns of Escalating Tensions After Kosovo’s Public Service Closures
The European Union has issued a sharp rebuke of Kosovo’s recent police operations targeting public service providers in the north of the country, warning that such measures risk deepening divisions and damaging its international reputation. In a statement released on May 16, 2025, the European External Action Service (EEAS) expressed concern over actions against key infrastructure, including the Vodovod Ibar water company in Mitrovica North and the public utility company in Zubin Potok, which serve predominantly Serb communities .
The EU criticized the unilateral closures as “escalatory” and urged outgoing Prime Minister Albin Kurti to halt further actions, emphasizing that such moves undermine trust between Kosovo’s communities and destabilize efforts to normalize relations with Serbia. “Unilateral and uncoordinated actions undermine efforts toward building trust between communities,” the statement read .
This is not the first time the EU has condemned Kosovo’s approach. Earlier in 2025, similar operations during an election campaign sparked warnings about their potential to inflame tensions, particularly when targeting Serbia-backed institutions . The current measures echo past disputes, reigniting fears of institutional fragility ahead of Kosovo’s political transition.
The EEAS reiterated calls for both Kosovo and Serbia to resume constructive dialogue under the EU-facilitated normalization process, stressing the urgent need to implement existing agreements, including the long-delayed establishment of a Serb-majority municipalities community. “Normalization of relations is an essential condition on the European path for both Parties,” the statement emphasized .
Recent Security Council reports have highlighted a lack of progress in Belgrade-Pristina talks, underscoring the EU’s frustration with stalled diplomacy . The bloc’s latest intervention signals growing impatience with unilateral actions that threaten to derail Kosovo’s EU accession prospects and regional stability.
As Kosovo faces domestic political uncertainty following Thaçi’s resignation earlier this year , the EU’s message underscores the delicate balance between enforcing state authority and maintaining intercommunal cohesion—a challenge that will define the country’s European integration trajectory.
Kosovo- Statement by the Spokesperson on the latest developments
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Politics
EU Leaders Unite in Reaffirming Support for Moldova’s European Future
Joint statement by the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, the United Kingdom, the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission after a meeting with President Maia Sandu of Moldova (16 May 2025)
On the sidelines of the sixth European Political Community summit in Tirana, Albania, leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, the United Kingdom, along with the Presidents of the European Council and European Commission, issued a joint statement on Friday reaffirming unwavering support for Moldova’s European integration 3. The meeting with Moldovan President Maia Sandu underscored collective backing for the country’s democratic reforms and resilience amid regional challenges.
The statement emphasized Moldova’s constitutional commitment to EU membership—a move reflecting the “clear choice” of its citizens for a future within Europe 2. Leaders praised the government’s efforts to strengthen the rule of law and democratic institutions, while pledging continued assistance to bolster economic growth, job creation, and investment. “Moldova’s economic transformation is central to this vision,” the statement read, highlighting plans to enhance competitiveness and living standards.
Regional stability was another focal point, with Moldova commended for maintaining security despite its precarious geopolitical environment. The leaders stressed the importance of free and fair parliamentary elections later this year, urging vigilance against foreign interference. “We will continue to support Moldova in safeguarding its democratic processes,” the statement noted, underscoring the EU’s role in reinforcing resilience.
The meeting comes amid heightened scrutiny of Moldova’s pro-European trajectory, particularly as it navigates internal political tensions and external pressures from Russia. By aligning their message with the European Political Community’s broader goal of fostering unity across the continent 3, the leaders signaled that Moldova’s accession prospects remain a strategic priority for the bloc.
Moldovan President Sandu, who has spearheaded her country’s pro-EU agenda, welcomed the solidarity, calling it a “critical step toward fulfilling our shared vision of a peaceful, united Europe.” The statement reaffirms Moldova’s place within the EU’s eastern enlargement framework, though challenges persist in aligning reforms with accession criteria.
As Moldova prepares for pivotal elections and deeper integration talks, the EU’s unified stance aims to counter disinformation campaigns and external destabilization efforts. With leaders from major EU powers and institutions standing together, the message to Chisinau is clear: its European path remains both a national aspiration and a continental imperative.
The leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, the United Kingdom, together with European Council and European Commission Presidents met with President of Moldova and reaffirmed their strong and united support for Moldova and its European future.
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