European Parliament Approves New Migration Plan: Bulgarian MEP Hails Benefits

The European Parliament has greenlit a new Migration and Asylum Plan, marking a significant shift in EU migration policy. The plan introduces mandatory quotas for the distribution of migrants among EU member states and establishes a novel approach to processing asylum applications. Bulgarian MEP Emil Radev, affiliated with EPP/GERB, expressed his support for the plan, emphasizing its potential advantages for Bulgaria.

Radev noted that the new rules will ensure a fairer distribution of migrants across the EU and alleviate the burden on bordering countries like Bulgaria. He highlighted that Bulgaria currently has minimal migrant presence, indicating that there is no immediate need for resettlement efforts in the country.

The approved plan, which follows eight years of negotiations, will replace the existing Dublin Regulation with a system that mandates internal distribution of migrants. Under the new framework, up to 30,000 migrants arriving at external borders annually will be distributed among EU member states. Those unwilling to accept migrants will have the option to provide financial or technical assistance to border countries.

Key provisions of the plan include pre-screening procedures for migrants to establish identity and conduct health and security checks, as well as a revamped process for granting international protection. Additionally, uniform standards for refugee recognition and subsidiary protection will be implemented to ensure equal treatment across member states.

The plan aims to address concerns about the instrumentalization of migrants and enhance border management capabilities. It also includes measures to improve the reception and integration of asylum seekers, such as facilitating access to employment and regulating...