New Pact on Migration and Asylum

Migration is a complex issue. The safety of people who seek international protection or a better life has to be taken into account, as do the concerns of countries who worry that migratory pressures will exceed their capacities.

To address the interdependence between Member States’ policies and decisions, the European Commission proposes a new EU framework that manages and normalises migration for the long term. This new system should provide certainty, clarity and decent conditions for the women, children and men arriving in the EU. It also allows Europeans to trust that migration is managed in an effective and humane way, fully in line with our values and with international laws.

Building confidence

Based on a holistic assessment, the Commission is proposing a fresh start on migration, to build confidence through more effective procedures and strike a new balance between collective responsibility and solidarity.

Clear responsibilities

More efficient procedures will ensure clearer responsibilities, helping to restore trust between Member States while bringing clarity to applicants. The rules will improve the link between key processes, notably asylum and return.

Solidarity

Flexible options for Member States:

• Relocation of recently-arrived persons
• Return sponsorship, whereby a Member State takes over responsibility for returning a person with no right to stay on behalf of another Member State
• Immediate operational support
• Longer-term support to build capacity on asylum procedures
• Reception of newcomers or return operations
• Assistance in responding to specific migratory trends affecting Member States through cooperation with non-EU countries

Tailored solidarity responses for specific scenarios:

	Dealing with vulnerable persons, such as those discovered following search and rescue operations at sea Relocation of those likely in need of protection Early identification of needs through a yearly foresight report Solidarity pool of national contributions, based on voluntary pledges Correction mechanism to guarantee effective support
	Easing pressure on a Member State’s migration management system Relocation extended to recognised refugees Contributions based on Member States’ fair share Correction mechanism to guarantee effective support
	Helping in a crisis situation Relocation extended to persons in the border procedure, those in an irregular situation and those in immediate need of protection Faster reaction at EU level through swift decision on contribution Solidarity mechanism focused only on relocation and return sponsorship

An inclusive approach

• Intensive preparatory work since December 2019
• Two full rounds of consultations with all Member States, the European Parliament, national parliaments, civil society, social partners and business
• Careful balance integrating all perspectives
• Next steps: consideration by European Parliament and Council