Hesse’s Interior Minister Roman Poseck has acknowledged that a recent ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) regarding safe third countries could have implications for the classification of Maghreb nations. Speaking to television station “Welt” on Friday, Poseck stated the ECJ’s requirement stipulates that a country can only be designated as a safe third country if the entire population within that nation enjoys safety.
He explained this presents a particular challenge for states where large portions of the population are safe, but specific groups may not experience the same level of security. A reassessment of such classifications is now required to determine the impact of the ruling.
While Poseck considers the current list of countries designated as safe third countries – including Ghana, Senegal and the Western Balkan nations – to be “unproblematic” he emphasized the need to carefully examine the implications for other potential additions, specifically those in North Africa, such as Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. Notably, homosexuality is criminalized in these countries, alongside Ghana and Senegal.
Despite the potential adjustments needed, Poseck expressed confidence that the list of safe third countries can be expanded further while remaining compliant with this new ECJ decision. He also does not foresee the impending reform of European asylum law (GEAS – General Approach to Asylum Policy) being jeopardized.
Poseck also highlighted a positive aspect of the ruling, noting the ECJ’s fundamental acceptance of the concept of designating safe third countries. He believes that, through adhering to the court’s stipulations, Germany can continue working with safe third countries, facilitating expedited procedures within the country.
Poseck dismissed concerns that the ruling could benefit the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, asserting that the ongoing shift in migration policy is “completely independent” of this ECJ decision. He pointed to reductions in the number of asylum seekers and increased deportations as evidence of this broader policy. As a member of the European Union, Germany is bound by the jurisprudence of the ECJ and the ruling must therefore be respected.
