However, the text concedes that corresponding concessions may be a prerequisite for improvements elsewhere: “However, we note that they are a prerequisite for a relevant part of the member states in the EU to be able to talk about improvements, for example a functioning solidarity mechanism distribution of refugees in Europe to be able to negotiate.” In this respect, the border procedures could “represent an effective lever against member states that have not yet complied with fundamental human rights obligations in asylum procedures”.
“The ever-increasing expansion of the border installations cannot be a solution,” emphasize the Greens. For refugees, “a right to a constitutional procedure” is emphasized. This also includes “an individual and substantive examination of the right to asylum in the EU – regardless of the way in which the procedure is carried out”. In addition, there must be special protection for families with underage children and other particularly vulnerable groups.
The Greens reject an extension of the list of so-called safe third countries. “People who enter the EU via a third country must not simply be returned, especially if they have no clear connection, such as professional or family connections, to this country,” the application says.
In addition, the Greens are pushing for an end to illegal pushbacks at the EU’s external borders, i.e. pushing back refugees without examining their asylum application, and for effective human rights monitoring there. Family reunification should be simplified and accelerated. In addition, sea rescue in the Mediterranean must be strengthened instead of hindered. However, there is approval for a “fair and controlled distribution” of refugees in the EU and for speedy asylum procedures.
In general, the Greens advocate dealing openly with migration. “It offers opportunities and entails challenges. We are facing up to this task,” says the application. “A policy of humanity and order” is required. But this also means: “Not every person who comes to us can stay” and anyone who does not receive a right of residence “must leave the country again quickly” – but only “if there are no obstacles to deportation”.
When it comes to caring for and accommodating refugees, there must be “a fair distribution of the burden between the federal, state and local authorities”. The aim is “that migrants settle in quickly with us and that refugees quickly become part of society”. Reference is also made to the high demand for specialists and workers in Germany. The EU interior ministers are discussing a new Common European Asylum System (GEAS) this Thursday in Luxembourg.
