Gambiaj.com – (BRUSSELS, Belgium) – On Wednesday, the European Union (EU) unveiled a detailed ten-part strategic plan to implement its newly adopted pact on migration and asylum. The new legislation, which aims to overhaul the EU’s approach to migration and asylum, is set to come into effect by mid-2026.

The comprehensive implementation plan, presented by the European Commission on June 12, is designed to serve as a blueprint for national implementation plans across all EU member states. This development follows the adoption of the pact in May after years of intense negotiations among member states.

Distribution of migrants in EU countries and Stricter Rules

The new legislation is structured to distribute the responsibility for migration and asylum more equitably among EU countries while also tightening the rules for applicants seeking protection within the bloc. Member states now have a two-year window to incorporate these new rules into their national laws, with the assistance of the implementation strategy.

The plan consists of ten key “building blocks” that are intended to focus and facilitate the implementation efforts across the EU. Each member state is expected to submit their national implementation plans by December 12, 2024.

One of the first steps in the plan is the reform of the Eurodac system. This reformed system will support member states in cross-referencing migrant arrivals and asylum claims. All arrivals will be required to provide fingerprints and photos to enhance public security.

Management at external borders will be strengthened with streamlined procedures for asylum and return, including stringent checks for applicants from countries with low asylum recognition rates or deemed public security risks. The plan also ensures adequate reception standards by providing earlier access to the labor market, healthcare, and protection for families, children, and vulnerable applicants.

The EU aims to streamline asylum procedures to reinforce safeguards, rights, and guarantees for applicants and beneficiaries. This includes expanding the role of the EU’s ‘return coordinator’ to ensure effective return of individuals not granted the right to stay in the EU.

To ensure all member states share the responsibilities of taking in asylum seekers and reducing incentives for secondary movements, the new rules will build on the existing Dublin regulation. Additionally, the solidarity mechanism will be strengthened to ensure no member state is left alone under pressure, despite opposition from some countries like Poland and Hungary.

The plan also focuses on preparedness and crisis response, building resilience to manage evolving migration situations and prevent crises. New safeguards will be implemented to enhance monitoring of fundamental rights, protecting asylum applicants and upholding human dignity. Finally, efforts for the integration and inclusion of migrants within member states will be increased.

At the press conference, Ylva Johansson, Commissioner for Home Affairs, emphasized the transition from planning to action, stating, “Today we go from word to action, with a common goal; to implement what we have agreed on.” Margaritis Schinas, Vice President for Promoting our European Way of Life, described the plan as “a blueprint for the next two years… to make the pact on migration and asylum a reality on the ground.”

The European Commission and other EU agencies are committed to supporting member states in the implementation of the pact. Although member states may be at different starting points, the collective goal is to achieve a unified and effective migration and asylum system by mid-2026.