A Directive for seasonal workers, intra-corporate transferees and trainees

“We need immigration, and migrant workers need to know that when they are in Europe they have rights”, said the Commissioner-designate on legal migration. In doing so she addressed the still outstanding implementation of the Strategic Plan on Legal Migration. The draft proposals on seasonal workers, intra-corporate transferees and trainees will be presented in the spring. Based on the Lisbon Treaty, which came into effect, both Parliament and Council will jointly decide on all three dossiers - a novelty. Malmström also plans to review regulations on family reunification. The intention is to launch a Green Paper before the end of the year.

Stockholm Programme: Communication and Action Plan under preparation

The Commissioner-designate regards the Stockholm Programme, which has only just been adopted by the Council, as another priority. “It is time to make proposals”, said Malmström. The Commission plans to submit a Communication and Action Plan, which includes concrete measures and initiatives for implementing the plan at the beginning of 2010.

Introduction of a common asylum system

With regard to the asylum sector, Malmström intends to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy, which is aimed at a coordinated support for migrants in cooperation based on partnership with third countries. The asylum system will be based on solidarity, countability and joint responsibility. “Europe needs a space, which provides uniform protection throughout“, said the candidate for the office of Commissioner. It is important to mention in this context that this will be accompanied by an efficient handling of illegal immigration. MEPs demanded sanctions for companies that employ illegal immigrants. There is in fact a relevant Directive; however, the Member States were not yet obliged to implement it. Malmström demanded a speedy implementation. 

Fundamental rights always come first

Malmström mentioned that the protection of fundamental rights would be at the centre of the area of freedom, security and justice. This was favourably received by many MEPs. Finally, she held out the prospect of a revision of the Directive on Data Protection for 2011. All in all Malmström demonstrated commitment and willingness to meet new challenges. It appears as if she can be certain of the approval of the Parliament.

Further information: