Lebanese MPs Criticize PM's Proposal for Seasonal Migration to EU

Lebanese caretaker Prime MinisterNajib Mikatihas sparked outrage among several Members of Parliament (MPs) after suggesting that Lebanese people should embark on"seasonal immigration trips"to European Union countries to work, while Syrian refugees remain in Lebanon. The proposal, which came following a visit from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, has been met with strong criticism from MPs who argue it undermines Lebanon's sovereignty and disregards the country's higher interest in the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland.

Why this matters: The proposal has significant implications for Lebanon's sovereignty and its ability to manage the Syrian refugee crisis, which has been a major challenge for the country. The outcome of this debate could have far-reaching consequences for the country's relations with the European Union and its ability to address the refugee crisis.

MP George Okais from the Strong Republic bloc stated, "A deal is being made to undermine Lebanon's sovereignty and disregard the country's higher interest... The matter has escalated to an existential level." Similarly, MP Elias Hankach of the Kataeb party demanded, "We want one of two things: for the Syrians to return to their home country, or for the European Union to show generosity by hosting them on its territory... We will not stand idly by and will continue to pressure the international community."

The European Union has been financing a refugee initiative in Lebanon, which some have criticized as a "shameful act." The cost of hosting Syrian refugees in Lebanon is estimated to be between 30 billion and 50 billion euros. MP Firas Hamdan, a Change MP, argued, "A billion euros cannot be the solution; what is required is a clear joint strategy to be put together by Parliament and the Cabinet... The issue needs to be solved politically and technically."

Prime Minister Mikati stated that the European Union has agreed to laws related to displaced Syrians, and that any Syrian living in Lebanon illegally will be deported, while those who are registered will be treated differently. He said, "We demand that Lebanese laws be implemented on the territory of Lebanon, and we asked the European Union to accept the principle that there are safe areas in Syria." Mikati also claimed that he called the Syrian Prime Minister, who said Syria does not stand as an obstacle to any Syrian who wants to return.

MPs are concerned that Mikati's proposal will lead to the "end of the Lebanese people" and exacerbate the refugee crisis. They are demanding a clear strategy to address the situation, including the repatriation of refugees and adoption of strategies similar to those implemented by countries like Turkey and Jordan. They are also calling for a new government to be formed to negotiate with the international community and the European Union, and for a decision from the top authority to resolve the crisis.

The Lebanese government plans to launch a campaign to push the European Union to recognize safe areas in Syria. General Security has been instructed to count the number of displaced Syrians, a process that will be accelerated with the help of the European Union. The Lebanese army will also be strengthened to fulfill its tasks, and Foreign Minister Abdullah Bouhabib will visit Damascus to discuss the issue. A conference will be held in Brussels, where Prime Minister Mikati will present a report on the impact of the Syrian movement on Lebanon.

Key Takeaways

• Lebanese PM Najib Mikati proposes "seasonal immigration trips" to EU for Lebanese, sparking outrage among MPs.
• MPs argue proposal undermines Lebanon's sovereignty and disregards Syrian refugee return to homeland.
• EU has been financing refugee initiative in Lebanon, estimated to cost €30-50 billion.
• Mikati claims EU agrees to deport illegal Syrian refugees, while registered ones will be treated differently.
• MPs demand clear strategy for refugee repatriation, new government, and international negotiations.