EAPN Migration Task Force Briefing Towards a rights-based approach to migration and poverty Kadri Soova, PICUM

The current state of play Top agenda item-highly politicised on national- EU level Certain MS in particular pushing EU for policies that appear “tough” Mainstreaming of migration control priorities across EU policy areas Regular/irregular dichotomy- reality much more complex Human rights safeguards seen as “obstacles” Contradictory policies, erosion of existing HR standards (example of recent Returns Package)

EAPN perspective on migration Exclusion, poverty, abuse and exploitation of migrants Non-discriminatory and inclusive approach, everybody’s struggle to improve their lives should be respected Positive narrative: migrants as an added value to our societies Direct experiences of migrants Promotes a common understanding amongst its members

Context Legal definitions: Migrant- undocumented/irregular migrant- refugees- asylum seekers- detention- deportation Key data: What is relevant and necessary for you? Lack of data and evidence is a general concern EU policy framework

Key issues and challenges Poverty & migration- often the reason for leaving but remain in poverty in the EU (non EU migrants over 40% risk of poverty compared to 22,5% of EU citizens) Safe entry- lack of regular channels- the smuggling debate Conditions when people arrive- example of the EU-Turkey deal Right to residence and work -Large majority of migrants arrive regularly with some sort of visa- precarious cycle of short term visas -Very few opportunities to have a work permit, especially for lower paid jobs

Key issues and challenges - 2 Access to services depends on the type of immigration status - Exclusion of undocumented from essential services or facing, additional barriers - Criminalisation and policing of service provision& assistance- reporting obligations Exploitation and abuse- precarious situation particularly for undocumented workers Victims of crime- access to protection and justice Migrant women and children face particular risks

Key issues and challenges- 3 Detention and deportation Portrayed as deterrent- evidence points to the contrary Political push to increase numbers, “success of migration management” only benchmarked against this number Child detention is never in the best interest of the child and ALWAYS a child rights violation

The Way Forward Benefits migrants bring to societies and labour markets Outreach to migrant voices NGO different roles What are EAPN key messages/principles on migration? Where and how does it place itself in this debate?