EU Visa Sanctions: Examining Dynamics with Gambia and Iraq Amidst Ongoing Discussions

The recent report from Statewatch delves into the intricate discussions among European Union (EU) Member States regarding potential visa sanctions for Iraq and Gambia, highlighting the nuanced dynamics of visa policy and cooperation between the EU and these nations. These deliberations are part of a broader strategy aimed at exerting pressure on third countries believed to be insufficiently cooperating with EU deportations. Both Iraq and Gambia have come under scrutiny, facing the prospect of EU visa sanctions due to alleged shortcomings in cooperation on deportations, a development that could potentially influence their willingness to accept deportation flights from EU member states.

Gambia emerges as a key focus of the report, being the primary target of EU visa sanctions introduced through amendments to the EU Visa Code in 2019. This decision followed significant unrest within Gambia, leading to a temporary suspension of deportations by the government. Consequently, Gambian citizens have encountered prolonged processing times for Schengen visas since 2021, coupled with increased fees from 2022 onwards. Critics argue that singling out Gambia reflects a broader trend of the country being used as a testing ground for new European policies, prompting concerns from activists about what they perceive as unjust treatment.

A notable development highlighted in the report occurred in January of the current year, where there was a significant relaxation of sanctions against Gambia, particularly through the removal of the increased visa fee. This adjustment was attributed to perceived improvements in cooperation on readmission, notably in the organization of return flights and operations. However, despite this positive step, visa accessibility remains a pressing issue, with Gambia experiencing the highest visa rejection rate among countries featured in the Commission’s cooperation report for 2022.

Insights from Lamin Mokendeh Darboe, former director of the Gambian National Youth Council, offer valuable context on the visa challenges faced by Gambian citizens seeking entry into the EU. Darboe underscores the restrictive eligibility criteria for EU travel, which have led many individuals to resort to alternative, often irregular, means of travel.

While certain visa measures have been relaxed, Statewatch emphasizes that increased visa processing times persist, signaling ongoing challenges in EU-Gambia cooperation on visa matters. The Council's decision to ease sanctions on Gambia was accompanied by a reiterated call for improved cooperation on readmission, underscoring the need to address deficiencies in assisting with the identification of Gambian nationals illegally staying in the EU, issuing timely travel documents, and facilitating a sustainable reduction in the number of illegal stayers.

In sum, the report provides a detailed analysis of the complex interplay between visa policy, cooperation efforts, and their broader implications for EU-Gambia relations. It underscores the importance of continued dialogue and concerted efforts to address visa accessibility challenges while fostering mutually beneficial cooperation between the EU and third countries.

By fLEXI tEAM