European Parliament approves contested migration reform

By Ahmet Gencturk

ATHENS (AA) – The European Parliament on Wednesday approved the much-contested Migration and Asylum Pact.

"The European Parliament today adopted ten legislative texts to reform European migration and asylum policy as agreed with EU member states,” it said in a statement.

According to the statement, the approved reform pledges that asylum claims will be examined more quickly, including at the EU’s borders, and more effective returns. It also gives member states the option of taking responsibility for asylum applicants, making financial contributions, or providing operational support.

Moreover, the reforms will enable better response during crisis situations and a new voluntary scheme for the resettlement of refugees from third countries as well as improved identification of irregular migrants at their arrival to the EU borders.

“The regulations are expected to start applying in two years time,” the statement said.