The Common European Asylum System (GEAS) takes effect this Friday. As FAZ reports, the reform could reduce the number of irregular migrants, but it will not bring a complete halt to irregular migration. In the German debate, the European dimension of asylum policy is often underestimated.
The core element of the reform is asylum procedures at the EU’s external borders. They are to be carried out for applicants with low prospects of success or who pose a threat. This could involve tens of thousands of people, which would relieve not only German municipalities. However, the system starts with two old uncertainties: Will rejected applicants actually be deported – to their country of origin or a third country? And will the states at the external borders fulfill their obligations?
FAZ points out that the success of the reform ultimately depends on the political will of the member states. The reform will not lead to a complete halt to immigration via asylum law, as radical forces demand. The system is more restrictive than before, but a compromise between parties and governments with different ideas. Its greatest effect could be that it acts as a deterrent – if the likelihood of reaching the desired destination country decreases and the prospect of deportation increases.
Source: www.faz.net
