Afghan turmoil raises migration fears in Europe

Significance

A significant rise in Afghan refugees is unlikely over the coming weeks due to geographical barriers, but European governments are bracing themselves for a significant rise over the coming months. Greek Migration Minister Notis Mitarachi says the EU is not prepared for another migration crisis.

Impacts

• With upcoming elections, Germany and France will be wary of taking in large numbers of refugees.
• Division over immigration could damage EU cooperation in other areas, such as climate change or fiscal policy.
• The strongest opposition to migration burden-sharing is likely to come from Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland.