Brussels, 11/03/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 11 March, the European Commission adopted two communications on the future of justice and home affairs policies. The Commission is highlighting three themes (confidence, mobility and growth) in the justice section. In the home affairs area, the Commission is advocating implementation of legislation adopted under the previous mandate, such as the asylum package and enhancing the Schengen area. The watchword is less legislation unless it is necessary.
According to the Commission, the EU should reach a balance between managing illegal immigration and increasing solidarity. It also said that the EU should be ready to better use the opportunities offered by migration, not least in the context of an ageing population and declining labour force. The EU must be prepared to meet its commitments in the context of asylum in a way that reflects genuine solidarity and shared responsibility between all member states. Future work should further ensure that support is provided at times of high temporary pressure. Sharing the beneficiaries of international protection between member states is one example of solidarity. The Commission is also suggesting setting up common asylum request centres and the sharing of reception centres in emergencies. The EU should also plan on ensuring the resettlement of the people concerned and provide different legal avenues for those who need protection (a co-ordinated humanitarian visa approach, for example). All these reflections should help to provide a basis for the June European Council on the future JHA policies. (SP)