EU asylum reforms leave key tensions unresolved

Significance

The main focus is on substantially reducing the number of illegal immigrants in Europe through more effective cooperation with partner countries, faster assessment procedures and more efficient deportations. It makes some creative but likely unworkable proposals to improve burden-sharing among member states while respecting the desire of some to keep their doors closed to migrants.

Impacts

• A redistributive system will only work in a scaled-down form, with the only countries involved being those that are willing to participate.
• The introduction of fast-track returns risks undermining European legal obligations and the right to fair process and appeal.
• Due to huge division over migration, there is a chance that the proposals will not be approved by the European Parliament or member states.