Policies

Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

Home affairs policy in particular will in future, have a strong influence on further European integration and closer relations with our European neighbours. The LIBE Committee discusses important issues, such as for example the Schengen open borders area or the EU’s visa policy.

The EPP-ED Group is aware that, in the age of globalisation, organised crime and particularly international terrorism do not stop at borders, and its efforts in the Committee are directed towards the security of European citizens.

Europe is facing great challenges. Thousands of people from developing countries are attracted to the EU; they risk their lives to get to Europe. Immigration is and will remain one of the most important issues for our committee. How do we treat people who are living in Europe illegally? Do we need immigration? If so, what kind of immigration? There are many unresolved questions.

In order to confirm and extend Europe’s economic and political significance in the world, we must ensure that our market economy can continue to benefit from a qualified and highly motivated workforce. The EU and the Member States must tackle this together.

Under the new Reform Treaty signed in Lisbon, European home affairs policy will become even more important, and the European Parliament will acquire further powers of codecision. I am looking forward to the new tasks that will fall to me and my colleagues. In the service of the European public, the EPP-ED Group in the LIBE Committee will continue to direct its efforts to ensuring security for all of us.