Belgium's 'Arizona' Coalition Faces Immigration Policy Standoff as Government Formation Deadline Looms
December 21, 2024Bouchez advocates for both integration and assimilation policies, emphasizing the necessity of shared values in a democratic society.
Georges-Louis Bouchez, president of the MR party, emphasized the importance of ongoing discussions, particularly focusing on migration issues.
The coalition is contemplating stricter rules for obtaining Belgian nationality, arguing that current conditions are too lenient compared to other European nations.
The MR party aims to clarify its stance on asylum and migration policies, particularly focusing on expediting the return of individuals in illegal situations.
Bouchez noted that approximately 130,000 individuals are currently in Belgium illegally, with many incarcerated, highlighting the MR's commitment to repatriation in future negotiations.
Bouchez stressed the need for better integration and assimilation of migrants upon their arrival, pointing out that existing regulations fail to enforce compliance with integration obligations.
He also pointed out that Belgium's asylum system tends to favor granting refugee status over subsidiary protection, which is more commonly utilized in other European countries.
De Wever, representing the N-VA party, has claimed that progress has been made on various issues, promising a decisive breakthrough by early 2025.
Negotiators have raised concerns regarding some N-VA proposals potentially being illegal under current migration law, although legal experts have reviewed all proposals.
Bouchez criticized certain political groups for allegedly exploiting the Muslim electorate for their own gain.
He raised concerns about Belgium's attractiveness to migrants, noting that the country receives a significant proportion of asylum seekers in Europe, particularly Palestinian refugees.
On December 20, 2024, King Philippe extended Bart De Wever's mandate to form the federal government, with a report due by early January 2025.
Key points of contention in the ongoing 'Arizona' coalition negotiations include fiscal policy and immigration policy.
He clarified that the MR does not support inhumane measures but believes in effective integration to tackle issues related to illegal immigration and organized crime.
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