Visa systems in Europe’s Schengen area create major barriers for human rights defenders (HRDs) from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, preventing their participation in key decision-making forums, Amnesty International said in its new report Closing the door? How visa policies in Europe’s Schengen area fail human rights defenders. The report shows that HRDs from 104 visa-restricted countries face complex, costly, and discriminatory visa procedures. Many struggle to identify where to apply, lack access to embassies, and must meet excessive documentation requirements, such as proof of income or property ownership, often impossible for activists working voluntarily. Although the EU Visa Code allows flexibility for such applicants, this is rarely used. Amnesty calls on Schengen countries to implement the revised EU Visa Handbook, train visa officers, and introduce a facilitated, fast-track process for HRDs. Read more here.
Source: Amnesty International
