Finland is preparing to resume transferring asylum seekers to Italy, becoming the fourth European country to take such action following the entry into force of the EU’s Asylum and Migration Regulation. The Nordic nation joins Germany, Switzerland, and Austria in implementing the new framework that allows northern European countries to send asylum seekers back to the first European country they entered.
The Finnish Interior Ministry confirmed the move to Italian news agency ANSA, stating that preparations are currently underway for the transfers. Officials emphasized that Finland considers it crucial that EU rules governing responsibility for examining asylum applications are applied as intended across all member states. The ministry stressed the country’s commitment to ensuring effective implementation of accountability procedures under the migration pact.
The Asylum and Migration Management Regulation represents a significant shift in how European nations handle asylum claims. Under the framework, countries can transfer asylum seekers, often referred to as Dubliners, back to the initial EU nation they entered. Sweden has also transferred migrants to Italy and announced intentions to continue the practice, according to Migration Minister spokesperson Victoria Holmqvist.
The resumption of transfers places additional pressure on Italy, which serves as a primary entry point for migrants crossing the Mediterranean. As more northern European countries implement the regulation, questions remain about Italy’s capacity to process the increasing number of asylum applications and whether all EU member states will fulfill their obligations under the new pact.
Leave a comment