FALCONPOWERS – The European Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, confirmed on Tuesday that there is “good cooperation” between the European Union and Tunisia regarding migration. She noted that the number of migrants coming from Tunisia to the EU has significantly decreased, while there has been an increase from Libya.
During a press conference, the Swedish Commissioner stated, “In the past two months, we have seen a decrease of approximately 80-90% in the number of arrivals from Tunisia,” referring to the agreement signed between the European Union and Tunisia on migration in July.
She added, “Unfortunately, we are witnessing an increase in the number of arrivals from Libya.”
Tunisia, along with Libya, serves as a major departure point for thousands of irregular migrants aiming to reach Europe through Italy, which has experienced a sharp increase in the number of arrivals on its shores. Johansson’s remarks were made on the occasion of the International Conference on the “Global Alliance Against Migrant Smuggling” in Brussels, which includes representatives from 57 countries.
She pointed out that the decrease in departures from the Tunisian coast is attributed to intensified coastal patrols in the country.
Johansson further stated, “We have also seen a significant increase in voluntary returns of third-country nationals from Tunisia to their home countries,” which is another commitment under the memorandum of understanding.
She emphasized, “Of course, more needs to be done as our cooperation with Tunisia goes beyond just migration. Even in the field of migration, more efforts need to be exerted.”
This partnership has multiple objectives, particularly reducing the arrival of migrants from Tunisia to the EU. It includes assistance worth €105 million to combat irregular migration, as well as direct financial assistance of €150 million to the country facing economic difficulties.
