Is the migration crisis a solidarity crisis?

Abstract

This chapter aims to analyse to what extent and how increased migration to Europe has triggered conflicting ideas of solidarity in Europe. It integrates analytical and normative approaches to the concept of solidarity. The chapter analyses how appeals for solidarity are used to justify a certain policy. It examines whether the migration crisis may be understood as a solidarity crisis. By combining the four dimensions of solidarity, the chapter also analyses what idea of solidarity the Member States have committed themselves to in the framework of the Common European Asylum System (CEAS). It discusses the concept of solidarity both as an analytical and a normative concept. The chapter also discusses the understanding of solidarity applied in the CEAS. It also examines how EU institutions appeal for solidarity and whether there are conflicting perceptions of solidarity within the EU. Regulations the Member States have agreed on EU laws, which determine the Member State responsible for persons in need of international protection.