EU considering 'disembarkation platforms' to end migrant row

The EU is considering setting up "disembarkation platforms" outside the bloc to process migrants, according to draft summit conclusions seen today by AFP, as Brussels tries to solve a political crisis over immigration.

European Union leaders meeting in Brussels next week will be asked to approve the creation of centres to assess migrants trying to reach the bloc and decide which are refugees in need of protection and which are economic migrants who should be returned to their home countries.

Immigration looks set to dominate the June 28 and 29 gathering, after Italy's new rightwing government refused to accept a boatload of migrants rescued from the Mediterranean and hardliners in German Chancellor Angela Merkel's coalition gave her an ultimatum to get tough on the issue.

"The European Council supports the development of the concept of regional disembarkation platforms in close cooperation with UNHCR and IOM," the draft conclusions seen by AFP say, referring to the United Nations refugee agency and the International Organisation for Migration.

"Such platforms should provide for rapid processing to distinguish between economic migrants and those in need of international protection, and reduce the incentive to embark on perilous journeys."