Protest Held in Palma Against the European Migration and Asylum Pact

A protest action was held in Palma, located on the Spanish island of Mallorca, against the European Migration and Asylum Pact (PEMA). Around twenty people participating in the action argued that the said pact represents a serious setback in terms of protecting the rights of migrants and refugees. The protesters believe that the European Union's new migration policies put the most vulnerable groups in an even more difficult situation. The protest highlighted that this is not just a local issue, but one that triggers human rights concerns across the entire continent. Participants emphasized that their voices needed to be heard, even if through mass demonstrations.

The action was organized by the Mallorca Anti-Racism Council and drew attention as a reflection of the recently increasing social backlash. Protesters gathered at 19:00 in the evening at Parc de ses Estacions. As part of the planned program, the demonstration was expected to continue for approximately two hours and last until 21:00. Due to its central location in the city, this park is a frequently preferred meeting point for civil society actions. Participants tried to draw attention to the negative consequences of the pact peacefully, accompanied by slogans.

The civil society organizations that organized the protest claimed that the new migration pact hinders or makes it difficult for individuals who should be granted asylum to access this right. One of the most striking criticisms is that it allows individuals to be held in detention for up to two years in countries outside the European Union. Protesters stated that this situation leads to serious legal and ethical problems. Additionally, it was expressed that increased controls in border areas restrict individuals' fundamental rights. The organizations called for an urgent revision, arguing that this policy is contrary to the spirit of international law.

The organizers also warned that the new system increases the risk of mistreatment faced by migrants and refugees. According to the claims, these regulations do not provide adequate protection against physical, sexual, and racist attacks. In the statements made by the protesters, the negative impacts of the policy on the integrity and health of women were particularly emphasized. Civil society representatives argued that the likelihood of individuals awaiting protection falling victim to crime networks or human traffickers has increased. In this context, the criticism was voiced that the fundamental values forming the union are being ignored and a culture of fear is being institutionalized.

The activists expressed the gravity of the situation by claiming that this new migration agreement paves the way for harsh institutions similar to the American Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Spain. Participants are concerned that such practices will lay the groundwork for the normalization of discrimination and arbitrariness by the state. Civil society organizations reminded that people should not be punished because of where they were born and that the right to safe asylum is a universal right. It was reported that such actions will continue to increase in the future and public awareness will be raised. Ultimately, the protesters urged decision-makers to adopt a fairer migration policy that respects human rights.