On 19 April the CIVEX Commission held a debate on migration with representatives from the European Parliament, European Commission, and Council of the EU. The findings of the study commissioned by the CoR on Regulatory Framework on Employment and Funding for Migration and Integration Policies in the EU were also presented.
During the discussions the EA Group Coordinator in the CIVEX Commission and member of the Flemish parliament Mr Karl Vanlouwe pointed out that local and regional authorities are on the front line when it comes to dealing with societal challenges of such migratory pressures. As regard to integration, Mr Vanlouwe underlined that rights granted come also with obligations and that learning the language of the host nations is key.
CIVEX Commission adopted the opinions on the future Enlargement Strategy and Combatting Radicalisation and Violent Extremism: Mr Vanlouwe added referring to this matter: "for too long we have turned a blind eye. Prevention is important but forceful measures are needed to defend our Western Values." He also underlined the importance of taking action at local level, in schools and the streets to ensure there is a better understanding of values such as gender equality, separation between church and state, tolerance.
