EC proposes new rules for granting asylum and resettlement for migrants

The European Union's executive arm is proposing new EU-wide rules for granting asylum and resettlement for migrants, among the most controversial of political issues in many European countries. The proposals were made public Wednesday by EU officials.

In a statement, EU Commission First Vice President Frans Timmermans said the proposed reforms "will make sure that persons in genuine need of international protection get it quickly, but also that those who do not have the right to receive protection in the EU can be returned swiftly."

The proposals, which must be approved by the European Parliament and the EU member states to take effect, include provisions to discourage so-called "asylum shopping," where applicants go from one EU country to another looking for the best deal.

[AP]