On December 6, the European Commission released its seventh report under the visa suspension mechanism. This report assesses the EU’s visa-free regime with third countries, including Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine, which are also EU candidate nations.
The primary goal of the EU’s visa exemptions is to simplify travel for citizens of these countries, allowing visa-free entry to the Schengen area for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Georgia
The European Commission’s report highlights concerns regarding Georgia’s adherence to the visa liberalisation benchmarks. The report states that there are ongoing discussions about potentially activating the visa suspension mechanism for specific categories of individuals. To avoid this, Georgia must take further urgent action to address the Commission’s recommendations.
Key recommendations for Georgia include:
Ensuring the protection of fundamental rights for all citizens.
Repealing any legislation that restricts fundamental rights, goes against the principle of non-discrimination, or contradicts European and international standards.
Aligning its visa policy with the EU’s list of visa-required countries, particularly those that pose risks related to irregular migration or security.
Adopting a new anti-corruption strategy with adequate resources, focusing on high-level corruption cases.
Aligning its Law on Personal Data Protection with EU standards.
Ukraine
Ukraine continues to make progress in fulfilling the visa liberalisation requirements, the report notes. However, more work remains in certain areas, especially considering the ongoing conflict.
The Commission’s recommendations for Ukraine include:
Aligning its visa policy with the EU’s list of visa-required countries, particularly with regard to nations presenting migration or security risks.
Strengthening efforts to combat organised crime, especially related to firearms and drug trafficking, human trafficking, and the financial aspects of crime.
Enhancing the anti-corruption framework, ensuring that anti-corruption institutions are independent and effective, with a focus on long-term reconstruction efforts.
Moldova
Moldova has made progress in addressing previous recommendations, but further improvements are necessary. The Commission highlights several areas where Moldova must take action, including:
Aligning its visa policy with the EU’s list of visa-required countries, particularly with regard to irregular migration or security concerns.
Continuing efforts to combat organised crime, with a focus on smuggling, human trafficking, and financial crimes.
The report underscores the ongoing challenges faced by these nations as they work towards EU integration, with specific emphasis on strengthening their legal frameworks and addressing security and migration issues.
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