As Ursula von der Leyen took the reins as President of the European Commission in December 2019, she inherited a complex web of challenges that have plagued the EU’s migration policy for years. The issue has been a contentious topic in Europe, with varying degrees of support and opposition to the current policies among member states. This blog post will delve into the scrutiny surrounding the EU’s migration policy under Ursula von der Leyen’s leadership.

The Backdrop

The EU’s migration policy is rooted in the Dublin Regulation, which assigns responsibility for asylum seekers to the first country they enter the Schengen Area. However, this system has been criticized for being inefficient and inhumane. Migrants are often left stranded at borders, facing harsh conditions and exploitation by smugglers.

The Current State

Under Ursula von der Leyen’s leadership, the EU is grappling with a surge in migration from North Africa. In response to this crisis, the European Commission has proposed a new migration policy that aims to strengthen external border controls and improve the management of asylum applications. However, these proposals have been met with resistance from some member states.

The Challenges

One of the primary challenges facing the EU’s migration policy is the lack of cooperation among member states. Each country has its own unique set of laws and regulations regarding immigration, which can lead to confusion and inefficiencies at the border.

The Solutions

To address these challenges, Ursula von der Leyen has proposed a number of solutions. Firstly, she has called for greater cooperation among member states in terms of sharing information and coordinating efforts to combat smuggling and trafficking. Secondly, she has advocated for more humane treatment of migrants, including improved living conditions and access to healthcare.

The Critiques

While Ursula von der Leyen’s proposals have been met with some support from certain member states, they have also been criticized by others. Some argue that her plan is too focused on border control and does not address the root causes of migration. Others believe that it is too lenient and will lead to an increase in irregular migration.

The Way Forward

Despite the challenges and critiques, Ursula von der Leyen remains committed to finding a solution to the EU’s migration crisis. In her words, “We must find a way to manage our borders effectively while also respecting human rights and dignity.” To achieve this goal, she has proposed a number of further measures, including increased funding for border management and improved cooperation with non-EU countries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ursula von der Leyen’s leadership has brought new scrutiny to the EU’s migration policy. While her proposals have been met with both support and criticism, they represent an important step forward in addressing the complex issues surrounding migration in Europe. Ultimately, finding a solution to this crisis will require cooperation among all member states and a commitment to respecting human rights and dignity for all migrants.