The Eu-Turkey Readmission Agreement
The EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement: A Comprehensive Guide
The EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement is a significant agreement between the European Union and Turkey that addresses issues related to asylum seekers and irregular migrants. The agreement was signed on March 18, 2016, and aims to prevent irregular migration and ensure the return of those who have entered the EU through Turkey.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement and its implications.
What is the EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement?
The EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement is an agreement between the EU and Turkey that mandates the return of irregular migrants who enter the EU through Turkey. The agreement applies to citizens of third countries who do not possess the necessary documents to enter or remain in the EU.
According to the agreement, Turkey is responsible for ensuring that individuals who enter the EU irregularly through its territory are returned to their country of origin or to a safe third country. The EU, in turn, is responsible for resettling Syrian refugees who are in Turkey in exchange for asylum seekers returned from the EU to Turkey.
What are the implications of the agreement?
The EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement has significant implications for both parties involved. For the EU, the agreement represents a significant step in controlling irregular migration, which was a major issue in 2015 when over a million migrants and refugees entered the EU. The agreement aims to provide a legal framework for the return of migrants and to reduce the incentive for individuals to embark on the dangerous journey to the EU.
For Turkey, the agreement represents an opportunity to strengthen its partnership with the EU and increase its role as a regional power. The agreement also provides Turkey with significant financial support for the refugees it hosts, including a €6 billion funding package from the EU.
What are the key provisions of the agreement?
The EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement contains several key provisions, including:
1. Non-discrimination: The agreement applies to citizens of all third countries without discrimination.
2. Safe third country: The agreement allows for the return of irregular migrants to Turkey, which is considered a safe third country.
3. Verification of nationality: Turkey is responsible for verifying the nationality of individuals being returned to their country of origin.
4. Due process: Return procedures must adhere to certain due process requirements, including the right to a fair and individualized assessment of the need for protection.
5. Family unity: The agreement recognizes the importance of family unity and allows for family members to be returned together.
6. Resettlement: The EU will provide financial support for the resettlement of Syrian refugees in exchange for the return of asylum seekers from the EU to Turkey.
Conclusion
Overall, the EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement represents a significant step in addressing irregular migration and ensuring the return of those who enter the EU through Turkey. The agreement has significant implications for both parties and aims to provide a legal framework for the return of migrants, reducing incentives for individuals to embark on dangerous journeys.
As the agreement continues to evolve, it will be important to monitor its implementation and effectiveness in addressing the complex issue of irregular migration.
