More and more EU countries are tightening their migration policies as governments are shifting more to the right. The focus in 2025 is on family reunification.

Several countries including Finland, Germany and Belgium, have already hinted at or started making criteria stricter to make reunification less accessible. Austria has taken the boldest step so far, getting ready to temporarily halt family reunification - a first in the EU.

Key politicians in the country justified the decision by arguing the country’s accommodation capacity had reached its limits and pointing to the country’s strained social services. Meanwhile, critics say this legally controversial move is a violation of common European asylum law and the European Convention on Human Rights.

Radio Schuman spoke with Federica Toscano of the leading NGO Save the Children to dive into what the end of family reunification means for migrants and host countries.

We also look at discussions on the next long-term EU budget and find out where in Europe people feel the loneliest.

Radio Schuman is hosted and produced by Maïa de la Baume, with journalist and production assistant Lauren Walker, audio editing by David Brodheim. Music by Alexandre Jas.

Europe Today is Euronews’ daily podcast hosted by Maria Tadeo and Méabh Mc Mahon, broadcasting directly from Brussels, at the heart of Europe.

Every morning, we deliver the top and exclusive stories shaping the European Union (EU) and beyond.

Stay ahead with the key news and insights that matter in Europe today.

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Next episodes

Is it the end for family reunification in...

Next episodes

Is it the end for family reunification in Europe?