EU support to Colombia in the Venezuelan migrant crisis
22.3.2018
Question for written answer E-001772-18
to the Commission
Rule 130
Beatriz Becerra Basterrechea (ALDE)
The growing authoritarianism of the Venezuelan government and the humanitarian crisis in the country have led to massive migration flows. This situation is particularly serious on the Colombian border, which is crossed by 40 000 Venezuelans every day in search of food and medicine, for refuge within the country or on their journey to another part of the continent, as reported by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
According to the Colombian authorities, more than half a million Venezuelan migrants are living in their country. This migration phenomenon has created a humanitarian emergency. Last week, Commissioner Stylianides visited the country to announce that new funds will be assigned to help persons affected by the crisis, as well as to evaluate the possibility of EU support.
In view of this situation, can the Commission answer the following questions:
- 1.Given that the number of Venezuelan refugees in Colombia is expected to reach one million in June, will the Commission consider increasing the announced funds?
- 2.What monitoring actions is the Commission conducting together with the Colombian authorities, in order to provide Venezuelan migrants with access to basic rights and services as well as to the labour market?
- 3.How is it taking the gender perspective into account in the adoption and implementation of these funds, in consideration of the particular situation experienced by Venezuelan migrant women?