HRC47 - EU Intervention: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants

24.06.2021
Geneva

Thank you madam (vice) President.

We have carefully read the latest report by the Special Rapporteur and we will study his recommendations in detail.

The European Union is fully committed to respect its obligations under international law and the human rights of all migrants. Allegations of mistreatment are taken very seriously and are properly investigated by the relevant authorities.

We regret that, notwithstanding its focus on Europe, the report fails to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts made by our governments. Amidst a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, we continued to uphold our responsibilities and ensure the wellbeing of thousands of migrants and refugees reaching European borders or being rescued at sea, while providing unmatched levels of assistance to migrants abroad as well as to countries of origin and transit. We also take issue with some imprecise and/or incorrect statements contained in the report.

Over the past years, the EU has developed a comprehensive and balanced policy framework on migration, which we are committed to further develop. In this respect, we noted with appreciation the Special Rapporteur welcoming of some elements of the New Pact on Migration and Asylum proposed by the European Commission and currently under discussion. Our ultimate aim remains to ensure protection for the human rights of migrants, addressing root causes, avoiding loss of life, and providing international protection to all those who need it.