THREATS AND RISKS TO EUROPEAN UNION SECURITY RELATED TO MIGRATION

Abstract

More and more people are living in the European Union beyond its borders. Some of them are looking for a better future. Others are chased by military action, political persecution, or natural disaster. The increasing migratory pressure creates a need to redirect significant financial and organizational resources to address the situation. The lack of prospect of lasting stability in the source countries determines the continuation of this trend, with limited capacity of institutions to secure the processes. In this regard, the expected increase in migrants in our territory creates direct risks for a humanitarian crisis. Regarding legal immigration, at a political level, Europe can speak of a generally positive attitude, leading also to a number of concrete initiatives. There are laws that allow immigrants, after working for at least a year, to come together with their families. Persons who have been legally resident for five years in the EU may be granted a long-stay permit, which allows them to pass on a higher level of qualification or to work in another Member State of the Union. Due to the economic crisis, the situation of immigrants in Europe at this time is particularly difficult. One of the most frequent reasons for immigration is the demand for employment, but as employers usually dismiss first employees and workers, the most severe consequences of the economic downturn are felt by immigrants, especially in the countries hardest hit by the crisis.