M. Schinas: The growing and cynical trend of using immigrants as weapons is worrying

“The growing and extremely cynical tendency to use immigrants as weapons is of particular concern,” European Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas said while speaking to the European Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs and said that regarding “immigration and security policy , it is clear beyond doubt that the only answers are European answers”.

Mr. Schinas noted that “collective action is necessary if we want to be effective” underlining that “in the past year, developments in Belarus, Afghanistan and Ukraine have repeatedly underlined the urgency of progress on the Migration and Asylum Pact from the European Parliament and the Member States”. Also, the Vice-President of the Commission pointed out that “the war happening on our borders has made us very aware of the fact that our European values ​​should not be taken for granted” and added that “respect for human dignity and human rights is being tested , freedom, democracy, equality and the rule of law, which have long guided our European action”.

“Our joint action so far has demonstrated our unwavering commitment to these values ​​and our readiness and ability to act quickly and decisively. And it should continue to do so,” he noted.

SOURCE: AMPE