The EU needs a long-term plan to support transition to democracy in the Mediterranean area and cope with any possible migration inflows. This was the statement made within the Civil Liberties Committee on 1 march 2011, where MEPs urged Member States to accelerate work on the asylum package and stressed the need for solidarity as regards relocating migrants.

Hungarian Presidency representative Peter Györkös, stated before the European Parliament  Civil Liberties Committee that for the moment, the possible impact of an influx of migrants is under control. Furthermore, Mr Györkös highlighted that over 80% of EU citizens in Libya had already been evacuated, an evacuation which has counted with the support and the coordination of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism activated by the European Commission. Regarding the impact of the crisis on EU energy supplies, it is foreseen that Europe has enough resources for the time being and there is no need for extraordinary measures.

At this same debate, EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, Cecilia Malmström, said that a mass influx of migrants from the South Mediterranean cannot be ruled out, as this situation will depend on the outcome of the showdown in Libya. There, Commissioner Malmström underlined, the European Union has to be ready for any development and Member States have to take responsibility in a true spirit of solidarity.

Potential influx of migrants, More than a border operation?

In this respect, Commissioner Malmström reminded that the European Union has announced the availability of 25 million euro from the EU emergency fund in order to tackle this situation, should it be necessary. However, some MEPs pointed out that this might not be enough to cope with a mass influx of migrants, specially during the coming spring and summer when it is easier to cross the Mediterranean. Ms Malmström replied that should there be a major influx of migrants, additional funds could be deployed quickly, by activating special provisions for exceptional circumstances.

From the moment on, operation "Hermes" is already in place in Lampedusa following the request for support made by Italian authorities. The situation seems to be now under control, as explained by Frontex Executive Director Ilkka Laitinen, and there have been no new arrivals. Should the Union consider the extension of operation Hermes to address Malta's needs, this could require an increase in funds and staff available for the operation.

Some MEPs questioned the Presidency representative and Commissioner for Home Affairs about the possibility for the Council of Ministers to consider moving forward with the asylum package, and stressed that partnerships with the countries of origin will need to be strengthened. Mr Györkös said the Hungarian Presidency would try to move forward in the Council with the relocation dossier and that asylum and migration issues would be high on the agenda of the June European Council.

Most MEPs stressed the need to help these countries with the transition to democracy and to promote their economic and social development. Mr Vimont mentioned the review of the EU neighbourhood policy, scheduled for April, as an instrument for dealing with the new political situation.