Refusal of the right to asylum and guarantees offered by Turkey

21.3.2016

Question for written answer E-002372-16
to the Council
Rule 130
Elena Valenciano (S&D)

The Council’s deal with Turkey provides for people in EU territory originating from various countries that are currently conflict zones to be sent back to Turkey. Concern over the fate of the returned people is very widespread. It is not clear who is responsible for categorising these people or when that will take place, nor is it apparent whether the return operation will happen at the same time as the claims of anyone entitled to asylum are being processed.

On the basis of what legal arguments will the responsible authorities refuse anyone already in EU territory the right to claim asylum?

Does the possibility of entering the EU legally from Turkey provided for in the agreement cover the people to be sent back?

What specific guarantees is Turkey offering on the conditions to which the people taken back would return?