The European Union has taken a bold step toward cracking down on illegal immigration by approving a framework to combat human trafficking networks.
In a move that’s sure to ruffle feathers, the directive leaves the door open to sanction NGOs involved in so-called “humanitarian rescue” operations at sea—potentially putting them on par with human trafficking mafias.
Initially, the draft included a clause to shield these NGOs, but EU Justice Ministers wisely decided against making it binding. This leaves each country free to decide whether these groups are aiding illegal activities. Nations like Italy and Greece, known for their stricter migration policies, could now target organizations such as Open Arms, which many argue facilitate the trafficking networks they claim to fight.
Not everyone’s thrilled about this shift, of course. Spain, Portugal, and Germany voiced their objections, but the majority of EU member states stood firm in supporting the option to hold NGOs accountable. The data speaks volumes—over the last three years, 300 people have been prosecuted for activities linked to migrant rescues.
Critics have long argued that these so-called rescue operations act as a magnet for illegal migration, luring desperate individuals into dangerous crossings while lining the pockets of traffickers. This proposal, now heading to the European Parliament, could lead to even tighter migration policies, with a right-leaning majority likely to push for tougher measures.
It’s about time the EU stops turning a blind eye to the murky role of NGOs in fueling this crisis. If these groups are found aiding illegal immigration, they shouldn’t be above the law.
