European Commission publishes third Annual Report on Migration and Asylum

The European Commission published on 30/05/2012 its Communication to the European Parliament and the Council, namely the 3rd Annual Report on Migration and Asylum. The Report encompasses an analysis of EU policy on immigration and international protection based on developments in 2011. The key issues as identified by the Report are the following: the new strategic framework set out in the Global Approach to Migration and Mobility (GAMM), the launch of the EU Immigration Portal, proposals to strengthen the governance of the Schengen area and the presentation of the EUROSUR proposal. Other notable achievements as registered in this document include the political agreement on extending the mandate of Frontex and on the amended Asylum Qualification Directive; the conclusion of a mobility partnership with Armenia and the inauguration of the European Asylum Support Office. Notably the Report states that "along with the co-legislators, some progress was made towards achieving the goal of a Common European Asylum System". Last but not least, it is highlighted that some progress in the EU acquis was noted by the adoption of Directives on the single permit for third-country nationals to reside and work in the EU and on a common set of rights for legally residing third-country national workers; and on extending the scope of long term resident status to beneficiaries of international protection; and on preventing and combating trafficking in human beings and protecting its victims. The Report mentions that Member States took further steps to transpose the Returns and the Employer Sanction Directives.

For further information on this Communication please also consult: European Commission: The Commission Staff Working Document on the Third Annual Report on Immigration and Asylum

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