Council of Europe Urges Humanitarian Visas for Mediterranean Migrants

The Commissioner also called on members to ensure a safe and legal crossing for all refugees, through the implementation of protection programs and mechanisms to prevent tragic ends for migrants.

In a report entitled "Saving human lives, protecting rights and reducing the lack of protection for refugees and migrants in the Mediterranean", the Commissioner submitted 35 recommendations to the European Council to guarantee the rights of migrants at sea, in particular "the right to life and protection against expulsion".

She also proposed to the Council to encourage the immigration of seasonal workers, to issue more student visas and to promote tourist stays in European countries, while facilitating family reunification.

However, the Commissioner criticized the attitude of certain countries that hinder the work of NGOs by blocking their ports in the face of migrant rescue operations at sea. Insisting on a practical program to coordinate search and rescue operations, cooperation with NGOs and the prohibition of human rights violations, the Commissioner advised Member States to put in place legal channels and procedures to facilitate access to Europe.