SESSION OF TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2001

Asylum and Immigration

Karamanou (PSE). – Mr. President, today’s discussion on asylum and migration is particularly relevant, as insecurity and fear of military operations in the Middle East are causing mass movements of desperate people. The waves of refugees have already reached the European Union, with my country, Greece, being the first stop, as it is the closest border of the European Union to the Middle East.

Dear colleagues, the Greek islands are currently under the pressure of an unprecedented influx of refugees and asylum seekers, mainly from Afghanistan. It is clear that Greece is bearing a disproportionate burden relative to its capabilities. Therefore, it is urgent for the European Union to take responsibility in this matter, providing assistance to Greece and developing a comprehensive and common plan for the protection of the right to asylum, as well as the full implementation of the Geneva Convention.

It is obvious that the sacred right to asylum should never be undermined by necessary measures to combat international crime and terrorism. In any case, the response to mass population movements should be addressed with a fairer global policy aimed at reducing inequalities and resolving differences through peaceful means.