Press Release: MEPs want EU embassies and consulates to grant asylum seekers humanitarian visas

The European Parliament's civil liberties committee endorsed on 16 March 2016 an update of the EU Visa Code.

Members of the committee argued that consulates and embassies from the European Union should be allowed to issue humanitarian visas to persons seeking international protection, to dissuade refugees from putting their lives at risk by entrusting them to people smugglers.

This system would enable holders to enter the country issuing the visa in order to apply for asylum.

A mandate was approved to start negotiations with the Council of the European Union on this matter.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: Report from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council - A smarter visa policy for economic growth http://www.europeansources.info/record/report-from-the-commission-to-the-european-parliament-and-the-council-a-smarter-visa-policy-for-economic-growth/

ESO: Background information: EU visa policy: A dash for growth? http://www.europeansources.info/record/eu-visa-policy-a-dash-for-growth/

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