Requests for asylum in Spain: difficulties and non-compliance with international obligations relating to asylum law
8.1.2015
Question for written answer E-000179-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Marina Albiol Guzmán (GUE/NGL)
2014 saw the greatest number of migrants and refugees arriving in the EU, yet Spain continues to be one of the countries where the fewest applications are made.
Xenophobia, criminalisation and police persecution which characterise the migration policy of the current government, which includes fortifying borders by installing razor wire or the attempt to legalise massive on-the-spot expulsions, are the main reason why, as ACNUR has reported on numerous occasions, it is one of the countries where it is most difficult to exercise the right to asylum with guarantees.
This migration policy, which prevents de facto the submission of applications, brings with it implicit non-compliance with international legislation — from the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees to the Dublin Rules — and with EU regulations, such as Directive 2005/85/EC.
What is the Commission’s view of the factors preventing the right of asylum being exercised in Spain?
Does the Commission intend to investigate the reasons why Spain has a ridiculously low number of asylum applications?
What specific measures will the Commission take to stop Spain’s non-compliance with international obligations and to enable the right of asylum to be exercised effectively?