Greece pushes to revise the EU-Turkey migration deal, with potential incentives for Turkey and added EU funding.
Table of Contents
Background: The 2016 Agreement
In 2016, amidst the height of the migration crisis, the European Union (EU) and Turkey reached a pivotal agreement.
Its primary goal was to return undocumented migrants from Turkey, arriving on the Greek islands without valid asylum applications, back to Turkey.
Current Situation: Challenges Arise
However, Dimitrios Kairidis, the Greek Interior Minister, recently voiced concerns, stating bluntly, “The deal does not work, Turkey does not take back people.”
High Stakes for Germany
Germany, in particular, feels the weight of the migration issue.
Many migrants entering the EU through Turkey are bound for Germany, amplifying the stakes in the deal’s success.
A History of Tension: Greece and Turkey
Greece and Turkey have been historically tense, often centering on migration and territorial disputes.
The tension reached a crescendo in 2022 when Turkey cut off ties with Greece.
However, the backdrop has changed following tragic earthquakes in Turkey this year and Greece’s rapid humanitarian response.
With both nations now hinting at renewed dialogue, there is hope for smoother bilateral ties.
Turkey’s EU Aspirations: Renewed Hope
After President Erdoğan’s narrow election victory recently, Turkey showcased a renewed zest for EU membership.
This comes after stalled negotiations since 2018.
The EU, recognizing its significance, is reviewing its ties with Turkey.
The Future: Expanding the Deal
Greece is not only aiming to reinvigorate the current deal but to expand it.
Kairidis pointed out the original deal’s limitation, which excludes migrants crossing via the land border.
“Now, we might want to include controls of the land border,” he emphasized.
Potential Perks for Turkey
To sweeten the pot for cooperation, the EU might dangle the carrot of visa liberalization for Turkish citizens.
This has long been a significant ask from Turkey, and a clear roadmap has been set out detailing the steps for Turkey to achieve this.
Funding Talks
While the EU has already poured approximately €10 billion into the deal, Kairidis suggests an additional €3 billion could be invested shortly.
In a nutshell, Greece is pushing hard for a revamped migration agreement with Turkey, aiming for more comprehensive controls and deeper collaboration.
The road ahead will require negotiations, concessions, and, most importantly, mutual understanding.
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