​​​​​During the debate on the current migration and refugee crisis at the CoR CIVEX commission, the EA group coordinator Karl Vanlouwe said the current migration and refugees crisis requires extraordinary measures.
 
The EU need to put in place a stronger border policy, which has not been in place up until now and ensure the resettlement scheme is compulsory for all Member States. Karl Vanlouwe added that it is important to draw up a list of safe countries to ensure migrants and refugees are given a safe shelter and avoid they make dangerous sea crossings. Finally he called for a structural approach whereby local and regional authorities and Member States work hand in hand when dealing with the crisis.
 
CIVEX members also discussed the Better Regulation package and the reports on the last local elections observation missions the CoR took part in. EA member Declan Mcdonnell reported back on the election observation mission in Albania.