On the afternoon of 3 July 2025, the event “European Union and Migration: Exploring Future Horizon” brought together students and European policymakers within the framework of the European Values and Migration (EUAMI) Jean Monnet project. The meeting represented an important opportunity for dialogue between young people and members of the European Parliament on one of the most debated issues facing Europe today: migration and the future of European asylum policies.
The conference featured the participation of Herbert Dorfmann from the European People’s Party (EPP), Leoluca Orlando representing the Greens, and Alessandra Moretti from the Socialists & Democrats (S&D), who joined the discussion remotely.
During the debate, the speakers addressed different perspectives on migration management and European responsibilities. Dorfmann (EPP) stressed the urgent need to reform the European asylum system in order to better manage migration flows and combat illegal immigration. According to the MEP, Europe must strengthen cooperation among Member States and create clearer, more effective rules capable of balancing security with humanitarian obligations.
Leoluca Orlando (Greens) focused instead on the human dimension of migration, drawing from his long experience as Mayor of Palermo. Orlando recalled the importance of the “Palermo Charter”, a political manifesto launched in 2015 after an international conference involving institutions and civil society organizations. The document calls for a new vision of migration, promoting mobility as an inalienable human right rather than a source of suffering. The Charter addresses issues such as border management, European legislation, citizenship laws, political participation, housing, healthcare, and the protection of vulnerable migrants and unaccompanied minors. Orlando summarized his vision with one of his most famous statements: “Whoever lives in Palermo is Palermitan.”
Connected online, Alessandra Moretti (S&D) highlighted the dramatic experiences faced by many migrants during their journeys toward Europe. She paid particular attention to the violence suffered by women along migration routes, underlining the need for stronger protection measures and greater European solidarity in safeguarding human rights.
A central part of the event was the direct exchange between students from the partner schools of the EUAMI project and the Members of the European Parliament. Students asked questions about migration policies, integration, border control, and the future role of the European Union in managing migration challenges. The discussion created a dynamic and constructive atmosphere, encouraging young participants to reflect critically on European values, solidarity, and human dignity.
The event proved to be an important occasion for dialogue and civic engagement, demonstrating how education and direct interaction with European institutions can help younger generations better understand complex global issues and actively participate in shaping Europe’s future.
