Revealing how Eurokołchoz dealt Poland with migrants

In fresh days the construction of the Centres for the Integration of Foreigners (CIC) in Poland has gained popularity again. For many Poles, the information about the establishment of specified centres was a surprise, but this decision was made a fewer years ago. It is worth looking at the objectives of these centres, who funds them and what consequences they can have for Poland.

Why do the Centres for the Integration of Foreigners return to discussion?

The subject of the CIC returned due to the publication of Przemysław Binkowski, an activist of the National Movement, who obtained information from 16 Marshal offices on the location of these centres. It turns out that most of them are ready and the others are due to be launched in the first half of 2024.

The decision to build the centres was taken in 2021 erstwhile the European Parliament and the EU Council adopted a regulation establishing the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (FAMI). Poland, as an EU member, was obliged to implement this project.

What is the FAMI Fund and what are its objectives?

The Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund is an EU financial mechanics aimed at managing migration and supporting a common asylum and immigration policy. The FAMI budget for the period 2021 to 1927 amounts to more than EUR 313 million, of which EUR 264 million is simply a contribution from the European Union.

The FAMI programme shall cover 3 main objectives:

1. Asylum – Strengthening the asylum system, improving surviving conditions for migrants and developing cooperation with 3rd countries.
2. Legal migration and integration – information activities, support in designation of professional qualifications, construction of Foreigner Integration Centres and education of integration assistants.
3. Return – supporting voluntary and forced return of migrants to their countries of origin.

Where will the Centres for the Integration of Foreigners be established?

According to information obtained by Binkowski, most CICs are ready and their locations include most voivodships in Poland. These centres are to service as ‘one halt shop’, that is, places where foreigners will be able to get comprehensive assistance in terms of integration, employment, education or wellness care.

Who will benefit from the FAMI program?

The FAMI Fund may be utilized by organisations and institutions whose activities are in line with the objectives of the programme. The beneficiaries shall not be individuals or individual entrepreneurs. In practice, this means that non-governmental organisations, public institutions and companies active in migration management can benefit mainly from the programme.

Living conditions of migrants in centres

In accordance with the EU Asylum Directive, migrants are entitled to "appropriate and comparable surviving conditions" in all associate States. In practice, this means that people surviving in centres can number on a monthly allowance of EUR 541 and access to the Polish healthcare system.

Controversy around CIC

The construction of the Centres for the Integration of Foreigners is simply a origin of quite a few emotion. Critics point out that the cost of surviving migrants will mostly fall on Polish taxpayers, while the benefits of the programme can primarily be enjoyed by Western countries specified as Germany and France.

Summary

The Centres for the Integration of Foreigners is simply a task that fits into the EU's migration policy. Although it is controversial, it is the work of Poland as an EU member. It is worth monitoring developments, especially in the context of the location of the centres and organisations that will manage the funds from the FAMI Fund.