Brussels, 18/06/2014 (Agence Europe) - The conclusions that member states may agree on at the European summit on 26-27 June, according to a provisional draft dated 16 June, do not contain many novelties: consolidating implementation of the programmes adopted, such as the “asylum” package, stepping up the fight against illegal immigration and cooperation with third countries and, possibly, putting the idea of a European border guard back on the table, as already mentioned in May 2011, during the Arab Spring.
The future of Justice and Home Affairs policies has been presented over recent months as one of the main subjects of the meeting of heads of state and government, particularly because of the Lampedusa tragedy on 3 October, which left 366 people dead. Nonetheless, heads of state and government may simply make do with transmitting the message that has already been sent out by ministers responsible for home affairs and which consists of highlighting cooperation with third and transit countries, so as to avoid migrants undertaking “dangerous journeys” and the “migratory policies” dimension in the EU's external and development policies.
With regard to refugees, the provisional conclusions allude to enhancing regional protection programmes that help stabilise Syrian refugees in neighbouring countries and, in a very vague way, increased efforts for resettling refugees. This, however, has been made at a “global” level but no reference has been made to commitments by member countries.
The provisional conclusions indicate that, although common borders fall within the remit of the member states that “must fully assume their responsibilities”, the operational capacities of the Frontex agency could be enhanced and its responsiveness improved. The old chestnut that has never really been put into practice, but which would involve the setting up of a European border guard “system”, is also expected to be explored.
The draft conclusions also refer to: the importance of the European coordinator's role in fighting terrorism over the next five years, particularly in the current context of foreign fighters in Syria; the functioning of the justice area, which could contribute to economic growth and make life easier for companies. Simplifying access to justice and mutual recognition of legal decisions will also be part of possible areas to explore. All of these policies are expected to be subject to a mid-term review in 2017, according to the draft text. (SP)