After the EU and Tunisia reached an agreement over the weekend on closer cooperation in combating illegal migration, it was not long before criticism from experts rained down. Migration researcher Gerald Knaus expressed his doubts in an interview. The deal was “too vague”, too “imprecise” and human rights “are just a minor clause”.
The reason for this is the deal between the EU and Tunisia that was concluded over the weekend. The North African country is currently the largest hub of the migration route across the Mediterranean. The agreement aims to solve Europe’s problem with the uncontrolled entry of people by sea. The EU is sending financial aid to Tunisia, in return for which the government must take stronger action against illegal crossings.
This causes skepticism not only among Tunisian citizens, but also among renowned experts such as the migration researcher Gerald Knaus, who expressed his doubts and criticisms in an interview with the ORF “ZiB 3”.
“It needs precise incentives and responsibilities”
In principle, Knaus’ goal of combating illegal migration across the Mediterranean seems legitimate in a situation where 1,800 people have already died in the past six months. However, the deal is “very vague” and a clear concept is needed. The expert also questions whether the EU is prepared to enforce human rights, which are the basis of European unity and democracy, in such an agreement.
“Human rights are just an afterthought.”
Until now, the Tunisian authorities have probably been less lenient with people who want to migrate or who have been deported. There have been reports of assaults and even burning of passports. Suspensions in the desert or beatings are also not uncommon. In this regard, Gerald Knaus criticizes the EU’s secrecy regarding these incidents. Transparency is important and EU countries need to “find the way back to plain language” – “telling people what we know and see.” However, human rights are “just an afterthought” in the EU-Tunisia deal.
It can also be done without a deal
In addition, Gerald Knaus, head of the think tank European Stability Initiative, talks about possible alternatives to reduce illegal migration.
An agreement with Tunisia for legal labor migration is particularly beneficial, as there are more students than at any time in the country’s history. To act against the irregular migration of people seeking protection, it is important to find safe third countries.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
