EU Seeks to Strengthen Mediterranean Ties with Jordan and Morocco Amid Migration Crisis

Focus on Strategic Partnerships and Human Rights Monitoring
The European Union is intensifying its efforts to forge comprehensive partnerships with Jordan and Morocco, as part of a broader strategy to address irregular migration flows and enhance trade relations with its southern neighbors. Dubravka Šuica, the incoming EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean, confirmed that negotiations with both countries have already begun, with the aim of securing “Strategic and Comprehensive” agreements similar to those signed with Egypt and Tunisia in 2023.

A Geopolitical Imperative for the EU
The EU views strengthening ties with Mediterranean countries as essential to tackling both migration challenges and regional instability. Šuica highlighted the importance of these partnerships not only for migration management but also to boost energy and industrial cooperation with North Africa, the Middle East, and the Gulf. “We are aiming to be the reliable partner of choice,” she stated, emphasizing the need for deeper economic and political ties with these regions.

Migration Focus: Urgency in Deal-Making
Both Jordan and Morocco are seen as key partners in controlling irregular migration flows. The EU has already struck significant deals with Egypt (€7.4 billion) and Tunisia (€1 billion), aimed at reducing migrant arrivals. Šuica cited the “80% drop in migrants from Tunisia” as a result of these agreements. However, she defended the lack of prior human rights assessments, arguing that the urgency of the political and economic situation in both countries justified swift action.

Controversy Over Human Rights Concerns
The EU’s partnerships with Tunisia and Egypt have sparked criticism due to ongoing human rights violations and democratic backsliding. Leaders in both countries, including President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi of Egypt and Tunisia’s Kais Saied, have been accused of consolidating authoritarian power. Šuica addressed these concerns by committing to more robust human rights impact assessments and monitoring before future agreements are finalized.

EU Strategy: Balancing Migration and Political Influence
Šuica emphasized that these partnerships are not solely focused on migration but are part of the EU’s broader strategy to increase its political clout in the Mediterranean and Middle East. She stressed that the EU’s involvement is not just about financial support but also about playing a stronger political role in the region, particularly in relation to the Middle East peace process and the EU’s stance on a two-state solution.