Raphaël Glucksmann, candidate for the Socialist Party and Place publique in the 2024 European elections, advocated for the establishment of “legal immigration paths” in Europe during a campaign launch event on March 24, 2024. He promoted the development of quotas based on the needs of European economies and rejected the idea of absolute walls and zero immigration, in contrast to the views of far-right groups leading the polls. Glucksmann highlighted the issue of integration in Europe and the rise of the far-right, emphasizing the importance of allowing individuals to travel between their home country and Europe without permanently settling.
Glucksmann also expressed his intention to vote against the majority of the texts in the Asylum and Immigration Pact, which was recently agreed upon by the Council and the European Parliament after years of negotiations. He criticized the pact for emphasizing filtering and repressive measures at the expense of solidarity and a common migration policy. He cited the Dublin III regulation, which places the burden of asylum seekers on the first country of entry, such as Italy and Greece, and criticized the lack of provisions for migrant redistribution in the Pact.
The candidate emphasized the need to address the humanitarian and political challenges posed by the Dublin regulation, calling for equal treatment of countries like Sweden, France, and Greece. Glucksmann criticized the lack of focus on saving lives in the Mediterranean Sea and highlighted the importance of relaunching rescue operations to prevent more deaths at sea. He stressed the need for a more compassionate and coordinated approach to migrant rescue and called out the failure of the Pact to address this critical issue.
Glucksmann’s stance on immigration and asylum policies aims to challenge the dominant narrative promoted by far-right groups in Europe and address the shortcomings of existing EU regulations. He advocates for a more humane and equitable approach to migration, emphasizing solidarity and cooperation among EU member states. His position resonates with many voters who are concerned about the rise of the far-right and the lack of effective solutions to the migration crisis in Europe.
By highlighting the flaws in the current migration policies and offering alternative solutions, Glucksmann aims to differentiate himself from his far-right competitors and position himself as a progressive candidate capable of addressing the complex challenges facing Europe. His emphasis on human rights, solidarity, and cooperation reflects a broader push for more compassionate and inclusive policies in the EU, resonating with voters who prioritize these values in the upcoming elections. Glucksmann’s campaign launch event sets the tone for a competitive and dynamic election season, where issues of immigration, integration, and solidarity will play a central role in shaping the future of Europe.
