The EU migration policy and the implications of the European Security Strategies. Future prospects? Can Migration be considered a challenge or a threat for the National Security of Member States?

Abstract

The aim of this essay is to present the main aspects of the European Union migration policy through the decades and the changes of policy stances from a policy of strict border management into a more integrative approach in respect to the potential positive role of migrants in the European Societies. The question that is examined is whether Migration can be considered an opportunity and challenge for Europe, taking into consideration that migrants can sustain the social security systems covering the demands for labour force needed as a result of the ageing population, or a threat for the national security of Member States. The method that has been employed is a study of primary, secondary sources and literature review. Primarily, are defined the different types of people moving from their countries of origin and is presented the legal framework constructed in the European Union. The European Union migration policy is described by the main points of Treaties and Conventions referring to legal migration. There are also analysed, the implications of the European Security Strategies in dealing with migration as a security threat and the tools the European Union has employed in order to apply its policy. Finally, it is presented the European Agenda on migration, as a reaction to the recent refugee crisis. The analysis reveals that the European Union must combat illegal migration flows and should aim to the successful integration of migrants and the voluntary return of migrants to their countries of origin. Migration in the EU will remain a chance and a constitutional element of the financial and social life. So, the challenge consists that migration will be both of the benefit of the society, the EU citizens, migrants, and their countries of origin. If a common EU policy is applicable, every Member State may define the number of legal migrants needed and incorporate them in the EU society. However, the sociopolitical changes in the Middle East have resulted to disproportionately large migration flows that the EU society could sustain. The migration issue demands a common EU policy with cautious management and collaboration with third countries, allowing also some extent of national policies to Member States in order to preserve their security. So, the national identity of the EU Member States will be protected and the integration of migrants will be more effective. The development of Global Approach to Migration is needed. Europe should respond to the demands of a globalised world by maintaining a single external relations policy.