The European Union has unveiled a long-awaited migration pact, aiming to streamline the asylum process among member states. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that the pact would strike a "reasonable balance" and that all member states would share the "benefits" and "burdens". She said it wasn't a question of whether EU states should contribute but how. The new pact aims to create faster border screening processes, with an EU system at the external borders. It also includes a flexible contribution system for member states who will be asked to contribute by relocating asylum seekers, returning individuals or providing logistical support. Von der Leyen added that the EU would also work with Greek authorities to manage a reception center in Lesbos for migrant arrivals. Migration policy has historically been a thorny issue in EU politics, and it's possible the new migration pact will be a hard sell for the European Commission. The process has been a delicate balancing act of giving more control over accepting migrants to countries who have been averse to mandatory quotas like Poland, Hungary and Austria, and supporting southern countries like Greece, Italy and Malta in dealing with people arriving on their shores from the Mediterranean. Speaking to Euronews ahead of the announcement, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson vowed there should be "no more Morias", referring to the overcrowded refugee camp on the Greek island of Lesbos, which burned down more than a week ago. "I think it is obvious that Moria is the result, not only, but partly, of the lack of a common European asylum and migration policy," she added. Johansson said she thought the new policy could bridge differences between member states over migration. "To be honest I don't think I'll have the chance to have too many 'hoorays' when I present my proposal, but I do think I will have acceptance and respect because I think we are finding the right balance where we show solidarity towards migrants, asylum seekers and between member states, but that we're also clear that those who are not eligible to stay — they have to be returned," Johansson said. Integrated border strategy The pact will introduce an integrated border procedure, including pre-entry screening for people crossing the external borders. The policy also aims to create an EU legal framework and more solidarity between member states. "It is now time to rise to the challenge to manage migration jointly, with the right balance between solidarity and responsibility," said Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a statement ahead of the announcement. The EU Border and Coast Guard Corps will also be deployed from 2021 to provide increased support. — Euronews
