Brussels: European leaders have issued a letter emphasizing the importance of democratic decision-making in immigration policies and the need for innovative solutions to manage migration more effectively. The letter, addressed to the President of the European Council, the President of the European Commission, and Heads of State or Government of the European Council, highlights the need to challenge the current migration status quo.
According to Presidency of the Council of Ministers, the leaders acknowledge the significant progress made in recent months, citing the agreement on crucial new legislation as a milestone in addressing Europe’s migration challenges. The letter underscores the collective effort of a majority of Member States to develop new strategies aimed at reducing irregular migratory flows and increasing the rate of returns, thereby redefining the European discourse on migration. The leaders advocate for a European migration policy that is firm, fair, and capable of protecting the most vulnerab
le individuals while maintaining societal cohesion.
The letter further urges the implementation of concrete measures in collaboration with third countries to dismantle the business models of human traffickers and decrease incentives for irregular migration. The leaders emphasize the importance of complying with EU law and international conventions while ensuring the return of individuals with no legal right to remain in Europe. Initiatives such as the Italy-Albania cooperation are cited as examples, with other countries urged to explore similar possibilities, including establishing hubs in third countries.
The leaders call upon Member States, the European Commission, and international organizations like the UNHCR and IOM to actively engage in these efforts. They stress the necessity of financial resources and international collaboration to achieve tangible results, urging immediate action to bring their visions to fruition.
European leaders, including Mette Frederiksen, Giorgia Meloni, and Christian Stocke
r, have expressed their commitment to leading these efforts and encourage other Member States to pursue innovative solutions in partnership with potential collaborators. The letter concludes with a call to action, emphasizing the urgency of delivering real results in migration management.