Dubrovnik – ESI at the Dubrovnik Forum 2023

8 July 2023
Gerald Knaus with Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
Gerald Knaus with Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Photo: ESI 

ESI’ Gerald Knaus was invited to participate in the Dubrovnik Forum 2023, organised by the Croatian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Gerald took part in the “The Mediterranean and Beyond: Strengthening the Bonds” discussion panel, where he presented ESI’s recent proposal on Safe third countries. Gerald outlined how to conclude migration agreements, which are essential to stopping deaths at sea and reducing irregular migration. He emphasized that such agreements must be designed to uphold the principles enshrined in the Geneva Convention, ensuring the protection of migrants’ rights while upholding the rule of law.

Furthermore, Gerald addressed the EU Migration and Asylum pact with Tunisia, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that such agreements prioritize the safety and well-being of migrants. He underscored the need for reception countries to provide fair treatment and protection to those seeking refuge.

Gerald debated with Davor Božinović (Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Croatia), Nasser Kamel (Secretary General of the Union for the Mediterranean), Josip Brkić (Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina), Andreas Schaal (Global Relations and Cooperation Director and OECD Sherpa to G20/G7/APEC),  Ahmed Abdel-Latif (Cairo Center for Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding) and  Belete Belachew (Yihun Entrepreneurial Forum for Peace and Development, Addis Ababa).

Additionally, the Forum facilitated in-depth discussions on reviving enlargement in Western Balkans, humane migration control and human rights.

Photo: ESI
Photo: ESI