Protection of asylum-seekers in the western Balkans

24.5.2018

Question for written answer E-002775-18
to the Commission
Rule 130
Tanja Fajon (S&D)

The Commission has strengthened its commitments towards the western Balkans in 2018, including through the strategy adopted in February. On 17 May an EU-Western Balkan summit will take place, at which, among other subjects, migration and security will be discussed. While migration is increasingly being viewed through a security lens, there have been numerous reports of abuse and pushbacks at borders and of ill-treatment of asylum-seekers. In November last year, a six-year old girl was hit by a train after being pushed across the border between Croatia and Serbia.

1. What is the total amount being spent under the Instruments for Pre-Accession (IPAs) and recent cooperation agreements, such as the flagship initiative to reinforce engagement on security and migration, including funds to strengthen the asylum systems in the countries of the western Balkans and to support border and migration management?

2. What concrete activities are being financed, who are the key recipients of these funds, and how are the funds being monitored?

3. How will the EU ensure respect for international legal obligations regarding access to international protection, including by preventing collective expulsions or pushbacks at borders?