European Union Justice and Home Affairs Ministers met in Brussels on 5 March to discuss key issues related to migration management, border control, and security cooperation. The meeting was chaired by the Cypriot Deputy Minister for Migration and International Protection, with the European Commission represented by Commissioner Magnus Brunner.
The discussions focused on voluntary returns, the functioning of the Schengen area, migration cooperation with transit countries, and strengthening European security policies.
Focus on Voluntary Returns
A major topic during the meeting was the management of migrant returns from EU countries. Ministers discussed the importance of encouraging voluntary returns, which many Member States consider the preferred method for managing migration.
Recent developments show that:
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Voluntary returns increased during 2025
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Many Member States see voluntary returns as more effective and humane
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The credibility of the migration system also depends on enforcing return decisions
Several ministers emphasized that voluntary and forced returns are connected, and both must function properly to ensure an effective migration management system.
Schengen Area and Border Situation
Under the Schengen Council discussion, ministers reviewed the current situation at the EU’s external borders. Many delegations welcomed the recent decrease in irregular border crossings, asylum applications, and secondary movements within the EU.
The meeting also highlighted ongoing efforts to maintain a strong and fully functioning Schengen Area, which allows passport-free travel across many European countries.
EU officials stressed the importance of:
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Improving border management systems
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Strengthening cooperation among Member States
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Maintaining secure external borders while allowing free internal travel
Cooperation with Transit Countries
Ministers also discussed the external dimension of migration, particularly cooperation with transit countries along migration routes. This “whole-of-route” approach focuses on addressing migration challenges from the point of origin to destination.
Key discussions included:
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Cooperation with countries such as Lebanon and Libya
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Managing migration along the Eastern and Central Mediterranean routes
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Providing EU support to partner countries dealing with migration pressures
The EU continues to work closely with transit countries to improve migration management and reduce irregular migration flows.
Visa Policy and Geopolitical Developments
Several Member States raised concerns about the need for a coordinated EU response to the new visa strategy. The Presidency acknowledged the importance of the issue and announced plans for a technical meeting to discuss the topic further.
Ministers also examined geopolitical developments in Syria and Iran and their possible impact on European internal security.
These discussions included participation from several European agencies and partners, including:
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Europol
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Frontex
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Schengen Associated Countries
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The European External Action Service (EEAS)
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The EU Counter-Terrorism Coordinator
Strengthening European Security
Security policy was another major focus of the meeting. Ministers discussed the future role of Europol, the EU’s law enforcement agency, and its importance in supporting national police forces.
Discussions also covered:
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The EU Drugs Strategic Framework
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The EU Agenda on preventing and countering terrorism
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A proposed directive to combat firearms trafficking
Many ministers expressed support for expanding Europol’s capabilities, particularly through the use of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence.
Migration Pact Implementation
The European Commission also provided an update on preparations for the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum, a major EU policy framework designed to improve migration management across the Union.
Officials highlighted that further efforts are still needed to ensure the smooth application of the legal measures included in the pact.
To mark the next stage of implementation, the Presidency announced a ministerial meeting scheduled for 11–12 June 2026 in Nicosia, which will focus on the full entry into application of the migration pact instruments.
Conclusion
The Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting in Brussels highlighted the EU’s continued efforts to improve migration management, strengthen border security, and enhance cooperation between Member States. Discussions on voluntary returns, visa policies, security threats, and the upcoming migration pact implementation reflect the EU’s broader strategy to manage migration while maintaining internal security and stability.