The European Union, so often championing global partnership and cooperation, is now facing uncomfortable scrutiny. According to a revealing study by the Centre for European Reform (CER), the bloc’s Schengen visa policies are damaging its relations with African nations.
In my view, this is more than just a diplomatic misstep. It’s a self-inflicted wound that risks alienating a continent brimming with potential — both economic and cultural. Let’s unpack the research.
Staggering Rejection Rates: Africa Gets the Cold Shoulder
Here’s what truly shocked me:
In 2022 alone, around 30% of African applicants for Schengen visas were rejected. That’s an eye-watering increase of 18% since 2014.
Some countries face even harsher numbers:
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🇩🇿 Algeria and 🇳🇬 Nigeria both suffer rejection rates between 40% and 50%.
📊 What this means in practice is thousands of talented professionals, students, and entrepreneurs see their hopes dashed — not because of their qualifications or intentions, but because of where they come from.
This isn’t just policy. This is systemic exclusion, and it’s eroding trust.
No Solid Evidence for the Crackdown
The EU often justifies these harsh numbers by citing the “risk of overstaying.”
Yet the CER report exposes a glaring gap: there’s no concrete data proving that high rejection rates actually reduce visa overstays.
This raises an uncomfortable question:
🧐 Are these policies based on genuine security concerns, or outdated assumptions?
From my perspective, this feels less like precaution and more like prejudice cloaked in bureaucracy.
Economic Impact: Doors Closed for African Business
African business leaders are sounding the alarm.
🚫 Entrepreneurs and executives are being shut out of vital European markets because they cannot secure visas to attend meetings, trade shows, or partnership negotiations.
This isn’t just personal loss — it’s a missed economic opportunity for Europe itself.
🌍 At a time when African economies are surging and partnerships with Europe could flourish, restrictive policies choke the potential for mutual growth.
As one African executive reportedly said:
“We’re building bridges, but Europe keeps raising the drawbridge.”
Undermining the EU’s Global Image
Let’s be honest — this does real damage to Europe’s reputation on the world stage.
The EU often presents itself as a partner to Africa, promising cooperation on trade, climate change, and migration. But these policies tell a different story: one of suspicion, not solidarity.
And here’s the kicker: as Europe turns away, other global powers are stepping in. China, the U.S., and Gulf countries are eagerly cultivating African partnerships — and they’re not blocking visas at the same rate.
Conclusion: Time for a Reset
From where I stand, the EU faces a choice.
It can continue down this road of restrictive, short-sighted policy, risking long-term damage to its relations with Africa.
Or it can recognize that true partnerships are built on access, trust, and respect.
If Europe is serious about being Africa’s ally, the first step is clear: open the door, not slam it shut.
The CER report is more than a warning — it’s an urgent call for change. And if the EU listens, it might just salvage its standing with one of the world’s most dynamic continents.
#EuropeanUnion #Africa #SchengenVisa #ImmigrationPolicy #EUrelations
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