BRUSSELS 

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has triggered intense discussions over her backing for her European People's Party’s (EPP) proposed migration policy in its manifesto that was unveiled for upcoming European Parliament elections, as it is reminiscent of Britain’s contentious Rwanda plan.

The manifesto, presented at the EPP congress in Bucharest, Romania, outlines a migration reform agenda that includes deporting asylum seekers to designated “safe third countries” and implementing a quota system for those receiving protection in EU countries.

Responding to concerns likening the proposed policy to the controversial Rwanda plan, von der Leyen, who was endorsed by the EPP as its leading candidate for a second term at its congress in Bucharest, highlighted the alignment of the proposal with existing EU law and international obligations.

"Whatever we do, I believe it is absolutely clear that we will fully comply with our obligations under EU law and international law. The concept of a safe third country is not new. It is already part of EU law," she said during a joint press conference with EPP Group President Manfred Weber.

The reform, as outlined in the manifesto, grants member states discretion in determining asylum eligibility and proposes agreements with third countries to establish “safe third countries” for the transfer of asylum seekers.

Under this plan, asylum processes would continue in the designated countries, with approved applicants receiving protection there.

Critics have expressed concerns about the potential implications of such a policy, particularly regarding human rights and the welfare of asylum seekers.

The manifesto also proposes the implementation of a humanitarian quota system to accept individuals from “safe third countries” annually, following the successful execution of the proposed migration reform.

The document also highlights the importance of cooperation with third countries to manage migration effectively, particularly in light of ongoing crises such as the situation in Ukraine.

It suggests exempting Ukrainian refugees from potential return due to the current circumstances.

Additionally, the reform advocates for a new agreement supported by a European investment plan for Africa to address the root causes of migration from the continent and promote economic prosperity and social development while preventing a brain drain.

The Rwanda plan had been one of the most controversial plans of the British government's migration policy, as it triggered international criticism and mass protests across the UK.

In January last year, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that tackling small boat crossings by irregular migrants across the English Channel was among five priorities of his government as more than 45,000 migrants arrived in the UK that way in 2022.