The debate and application of asylum policy are affected significantly by the involvement of civil society organisations. Their specialised knowledge and skill are complementary and frequently add value to the work of the Agency. The EUAA (European Union Agency for Asylum) is dedicated to continuing a close line of communication with pertinent civil society organisations and professional organisations engaged in the subject of asylum and reception.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine, followed by the pandemic, has put tremendous strain on the world's political, economic, and health systems. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Civil Society Organizations (CSO), and individual people are to play a crucial role in such a crisis. They are responsible for offering support and drawing attention to these challenges as the focus has switched to obtain a speedy response to this disaster.

European countries have introduced visa policies for Ukrainian citizens. However, for EU Delegations to fully comprehend the context of each partner country, cooperation with civil society organisations is crucial. But the current environment is also very difficult for NGOs, CSOs, and human rights advocates. These organisations suffer financial limitations as well as national pressures, including physical threats, intimidation, and occasionally murder.

How civil societies and NGOs affect the immigration process

NGO is a volunteer, non-profit group of individuals organised locally, regionally, or internationally. They are organisations that run without interference from the government. On the other hand, civil society is a combination of social and civic organisations that helps create a functional society. As per World Health Organization, it is a non-profit organisation and is not backed by the state.

On a wide range of global challenges relating to the management of migration, civil society and NGOs work together in several ways: 

Acting as per the calamity of a crisis

The most crucial role played by both these institutes when it comes to immigration is identifying the threat. They assess the situation and determine how they may act in response. For instance, in the case of Ukraine, asylum seekers are being welcomed by the EU. The same thing can be observed in many other issues like that of Afghan and Syrian refugees.

Safeguarding human rights

In order to raise public knowledge of immigrant human rights, NGOs and CSOs together plan and execute workshops, seminars, and information-dissemination campaigns. They might also carry out studies and gather data to spot and rectify abuses. These organizations also make sure that the applicants are able to avoid visa scams.

Avoiding Trafficking

NGOs and COSs work together to educate prospective migrants about trafficking and enhance the capacity of governmental organisations to combat it. They support victims of trafficking by offering housing and protection services, therapy and medical support, as well as assistance with the return.

Tightening the policies

Civil society or NGOs may also prompt the authorities to stricken the policies for coming immigrants. It helps them control immigrants entering the nation, thus avoiding many economic and political risks.

NGOs and civil society harden cooperation on reception in Europe

The need for closer collaboration in the areas of asylum and reception in Europe was highlighted during the most recent EUAA Consultative Forum. It also included Civil Society Organisations working in the fields of migration and asylum.

The European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) offered an update on the situation with regard to asylum in Europe as well as the operational and educational assistance being given to Member States. The gathering took place on November 10 in Malta. It was noted that in response to an increase in asylum applications in 2022, EUAA activities have dramatically increased.

The startling statistics show that 4.7 million people are looking for temporary shelter in European nations as a result of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine was given as a follow-up. Not just those from Ukraine have requested asylum. According to reports, Syrian and Afghani nationals submitted the most applications, which represents a 30% increase over July's total.

Following all that, civil society and NGOs have taken the initiative to tighten cooperation regarding asylum seekers. The step will drastically implicate those seeking asylum in the country. This will allow them to keep a check on immigrants as per the accommodations.

Final Thoughts

NGOs have been known to influence things beyond their jurisdiction. The expansion of NGOs is evidence of their significance, effect, and engagement in the worldwide community since they can operate as a bridge between societies. They influence several phenomena, including the immigration process. Recently, with an increase of immigrants in the EU, NGOs and civil society has proposed to tighten cooperation on reception to Europe.

FAQS

What are the main difficulties faced by immigrants in Europe?

Finding a job, paying for food, and even socialising become exceedingly difficult when you don't understand the language of the region in which you live. Additionally, finding the time to attend English language classes can be difficult.

What are the main purposes of NGOs?

NGOs engage in different kinds of activities, like human rights and social and environmental activism. On a large or small scale, they can seek to advance social or political change. NGOs are considered essential for the growth of societies, the improvement of communities, and for promoting citizens' participation.