The European Commission proposed a Council Regulation (EC) amending Regulation (EEC) No 1408/71 as regards its extension to nationals of third countries [COM(97) 561 fin.; Brussels, 12.11.1997]. It is concerned with the ‘Community coordination of social security schemes … to employed persons and self-employed persons who are insured in a Member State and who are not Community nationals.’ (2) ‘The Commission’s proposal is aimed at introducing a mechanism whereby nationals of third countries resident over a long period are recognized as long-term residents. Under the terms of the Commission’s proposal , such persons should enjoy specific rights, on an equal footing with Community citizens, both in the Member State where they are recognized as long-term residents and in the other Member States.’ (ibid.)

There is nothing special about this proposal – it is just a gesture of respecting human rights in some selected cases – not less, but not more as well. The limitation is to some degree alarming – but this is true for European Social Policy in general, because it is strictly based on an approach, which is limited: Only employment and free movement of the workforce is a matter of concern. And for several times the Commission stresses just this fact, i.e. that there is no effect in regard of the immigration from 3^rd countries and furthermore, that national sovereignty in regard of shaping the national security systems is not effected at all. All those who follow the political agenda on the EU level could not expect more.

We always hear that refugees and asylum seekers flood all over Europe. It is interesting to have a closer look at the figures. For example, it is never said that the majority of people never reach the borders of the EU, let alone that they cross them.