ΑΛΛΗΛΕΓΓΥΗ ΣΤΗΝ ΕΕ: ΕΞΕΛΙΞΕΙΣ ΣΤΟ ΠΕΔΙΟ ΤΗΣ ΠΡΟΣΦΥΓΙΚΗΣ ΠΡΟΣΤΑΣΙΑΣ ΚΑΙ ΠΡΟΚΛΗΣΕΙΣ ΣΤΗΝ ΕΕ ΚΑΙ ΣΤΗΝ ΕΛΛΑΔΑ

68 EU Solidarity in managing migration flows through ECHO in Greece 3/2016-3/2019 — A joint needs assessment before launching any projects allowing synergies be- tween authorities, IOs and NGOs covering the same needs, in order to avoid competition and duplication of efforts). — Constant reassessment of the situation and the needs on the ground as migra- tion and disasters involve rapid changes. — ECHO should involve already in the beginning NGOs already working on the Member State. — An exit strategy and a sustainability study (hand over to authorities) included in the initial stages of the designing of any such mechanism. 5. Conclusions In conclusion, the evaluation of this new EU emergency policy providing humani- tarian aid inside the EU, poses the risk of substituting the European asylum and immigration policy, with a technocratic financial instrument, transforming solidar- ity from a legal obligation and a legal value into dispatching funds as a way to avoid sharing of responsibilities. Moreover, addressing migration flows as an emer- gency, is being blindfold to the perpetual phenomenon and the multiple humani- tarian consequences of people on the move. A substantial change in the EU and member states’ policies will and cannot be alleviated through humanitarian as- sistance. And if in exceptional circumstances such aid will trigger DG ECHO it is an absolute imperative to safeguard humanitarian principles and independence of any such action. Finally, showing solidarity is not merely a funding alternative. It is a legal obligation, a foundational principle of the EU, a common European value with a mission to address structural inequalities and human security. Of refugees, migrants or victims of any devastating natural or man-made disaster. No man is an island, Entire of itself, Every man is a piece of the continent, A part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less. As well as if a promontory were. As well as if a manor of thy friend’s Or of thine own were: Any man’s death diminishes me, Because I am involved in mankind, And therefore, never send to know for whom the bell tolls; It tolls for thee. John Donne