March 24, 2009 - In association with five other Christian organisations based in Brussels, JRS-Europe has published comments to the European Commission's proposal to amend the Dublin Regulation. The policy memorandum reflects upon the Commission's key legislative proposals, and evaluates them based on their potential impact on the lives of asylum seekers in Europe.

Overall, the memorandum expresses strong support for the Commission's proposals, some of which would "significantly improve upon the Dublin system's current shortcomings." A new legal right to information, the restriction in the use of detention and stronger protections for vulnerable persons are just some of the measures that would improve the lives of asylum seekers who must go through the Dublin system.

Nevertheless, the organisations reiterate the position that "the Dublin system, per se, harbours serious shortcomings." Despite any potential improvements that could be made, the Dublin system will continue to have a deeply negative impact upon the dignity of persons who flee to Europe for their safety of their lives.

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