EU countries have relocated just 117 asylum seekers out of 8,000 pledges
The EU-wide relocation system launched in June and touted as a major step forward in the reform of migration policy has so far resulted in 117 asylum seekers being transferred across the bloc – out of an annual target that envisions 8,000 pledges.
"We're working very closely with all member states to ensure that we have in place a common solution," a European Commission spokesperson said on Monday while announcing the numbers.
"I know this number doesn't seem like a lot but we need to keep in mind that we have 8,000 pledges as such."
The low figures come as asylum applications reach highs not seen since the 2015 migration crisis. August alone saw 84,500 requests lodged, with Afghans and Syrians leading the count.
The gradual rise in border crossings is fuelling tensions between EU countries, who continue to disagree on a common migration policy to manage new arrivals.
Relations between France and Italy have deteriorated over the disembarkation of the Ocean Viking, a ship that Rome did not allow to disembark despite its obligation under international law.
The vessel, operated by the humanitarian organisation SOS Méditerranée, had 234 people on board, including 57 children. Some of them had been stranded on the vessel for 19 days, raising fears of loss of life.
French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin called Italy's actions "inhumane" and "incomprehensible," arguing the vessel was in Italian waters and was therefore required to disembark somewhere in Italy.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said she was struck by the "aggressive reaction" from Paris, which she deemed "incomprehensible and "unjustified."
Under current EU rules, asylum applications have to be processed by the first country of entry. By refusing arrival, a state
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