Brussels to speed up the implementation of the migration pact

A recent proposal suggests that key elements of the migration and asylum pact adopted last year, originally due to enter into force in June 2026, could be implemented earlier. The proposal aims to support Member States in processing asylum applications that are likely to be unfounded more quickly and efficiently, according to a Commission Communication.

The EC proposes the advance application of two important rules:

• On the one hand, Member States can fast-track asylum applicants from countries with an acceptance rate of 20% or less.
• On the other hand, it would designate certain countries that are considered safe, and Member States would have the flexibility to exclude asylum seekers from these countries at their discretion.

A common EU list of designated countries would be established, allowing Member States to decide on fast-track procedures within a single framework. So far, the proposal includes Kosovo, Bangladesh, Colombia, Egypt, India, Morocco, Tunisia and Colombia, but the list would of course be updated on an ongoing basis, with the possibility of countries being added or removed.

The Commission considers that the candidate countries meet the criteria in principle, as they are working to achieve stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and the protection of minorities on their path to EU membership.

Candidate countries would thus only be excluded under certain circumstances: indiscriminate violence in conflict situations, sanctions adopted by the Council against the country concerned, or if the EU recognition rate of asylum seekers exceeds 20%.

The Commission also considered it important to underline that designation as a safe country of origin does not mean that all asylum seekers from that country are safe.

Member States should also examine individuals in such cases, but after individual assessment, it would be quicker to take action.

The adoption of the proposal now depends on the European Parliament and the Council of Member State leaders.

Cover photo (for illustration purposes only): Getty Images