Migration also headlined the Special Council reaffirming that it is a European challenge that requires a European response. Action to prevent irregular departures and loss of life is to be intensified with countries of origin and transit while enhancing cooperation on returns and readmission. The commitment to ensure effective control of the EU’s external borders was reaffirmed together with the importance of fighting instrumentalisation, trafficking and smuggling of people.

The European Council in its full conclusions, highlighted the importance of adopting the Pact on Migration and Asylum as a comprehensive migration policy.