Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer recently praised the UK for its innovative migration policy during a visit by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to Vienna. The Austrian leader commended the UK for its plan to deport illegal migrants to Rwanda, calling it a bold and novel approach. This comes as Nehammer’s conservative party, known for taking a hard line on migration, faces a tough challenge from the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) in the upcoming autumn election.
Nehammer emphasized the importance of conducting asylum proceedings in safe third countries and highlighted the UK as a strategic partner in this regard. He pointed out that the UK’s Rwanda model could serve as an example for the European Union as well. Austria is among the 15 EU countries that have called for more agreements with countries that migrants depart from or travel through to reach Europe. This move followed sweeping reforms to the bloc’s asylum system.
In late April, the UK Parliament approved legislation to send some migrants to Rwanda. Prime Minister Sunak defended the controversial plan, which aims to deter dangerous English Channel crossings by desperate migrants seeking entry to the UK. Despite facing criticism from human rights activists and advocacy groups, Sunak stressed the need for new ideas, solutions, and deterrents in addressing migration issues. He praised the UK’s pioneering approach of removals to safe third countries like Rwanda.
The joint news conference held by Nehammer and Sunak highlighted the evolving nature of migration policies and the importance of international partnerships in addressing the challenges posed by irregular migration. Sunak underscored the need for bold and innovative strategies such as safe country partnerships in dealing with migration flows. The UK’s Rwanda scheme is seen as a trailblazing initiative that could set a precedent for other countries grappling with similar issues.
As the UK and Austria continue to strengthen their cooperation on migration, both countries are expected to play a leading role in shaping the EU’s approach to asylum proceedings in safe third countries. The UK, having exited the EU in 2020, is seen as a pioneer in this regard, with its initiative drawing attention from other member states. While the Rwanda model remains contentious, it reflects a broader trend towards exploring alternative solutions to manage migration more effectively and humanely.
In conclusion, the meeting between Chancellor Nehammer and Prime Minister Sunak underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing migration challenges. The UK’s Rwanda scheme has sparked a global conversation on the role of safe third countries in asylum proceedings. As countries like Austria and the UK navigate complex migration issues, their partnership could set a new standard for international cooperation on migration management. By leveraging bold and novel approaches, policymakers hope to create a more sustainable and humane system that respects the rights and dignity of migrants while safeguarding national interests.
