Bratislava/Brussels – Migration is viewed by European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner as one of the most significant challenges facing the European Union, extending beyond its borders. He noted in an interview with TASR prior to his Thursday visit to Slovakia that public concerns are serious, and if unaddressed, could influence voter behavior.
“As politicians, it is our duty to address these concerns with practical, effective solutions. This is not a matter of left, right, or center, but about equipping member states with the necessary tools to act – both within the EU and with our global partners,” he stated. He highlighted the importance of enhancing the Union’s external borders, combating human trafficking, and facilitating cooperation among member countries without unnecessary barriers.
Brunner pointed out that Europe has encountered various challenges over the past decade following the significant migration wave, which exposed vulnerabilities in the asylum system. “The priority in migration should be to build public trust that we are managing the situation in Europe effectively. To do this, we must handle migration fairly and decisively while coordinating efforts at the European level,” he added.
This responsibility lies with the Pact on Migration and Asylum, approved in the first half of last year and set to take effect in June 2026. “We are currently working under outdated regulations, and many member states and their citizens are understandably frustrated with a malfunctioning system,” he remarked. The pact encompasses the principle of solidarity, which has faced opposition from several countries, including those in the Visegrad Group (V4).
The Pact on Migration and Asylum ensures that responsibility and solidarity go hand in hand
“It guarantees that responsibility and solidarity are interconnected. Typically, countries at the Union’s external borders bear a significant share of responsibility for conducting border procedures, security checks, and processing asylum applications. Solidarity acts as a necessary counterbalance to this responsibility. If one country faces pressure, others will assist,” he stated.
Brunner emphasized that migration is a challenge that surpasses the EU’s borders. He stressed the importance of streamlining return policies and enhancing cooperation with countries along migration routes and the migrants’ countries of origin. “This involves increasing diplomatic efforts in migration and forming comprehensive partnerships to tackle its root causes,” he noted, adding that this approach is already leading to results with a decrease in illegal migration.
The EU plans to utilize various instruments for this purpose, including visa policy, trade, and development aid. “It’s not solely about preventing perilous journeys; it’s also about attracting the talents essential for supporting the domestic labor market and maintaining global competitiveness,” he explained to TASR.
Moreover, the EU must investigate new methods for returning individuals lacking the right to remain in the Union, which may involve allowing member states to establish return centers. “These centers would function based on clear guarantees and regulations,” he mentioned in response to concerns about migrant rights violations in third countries.
Brunner also discussed Slovakia’s vital role in aiding displaced persons from Ukraine, who have found refuge and opportunities within member states. “Slovakia has demonstrated remarkable solidarity, providing protection to over 130,000 Ukrainians. This generosity will be remembered by the families and children who received help in their time of need,” he remarked. He noted that the security of Ukraine is inherently linked to the security of Europe. As the situation in Ukraine remains unstable, the EU has extended the temporary protection status for its citizens until spring next year. “Additionally, we are preparing for a smooth transition after this period, including support for safe and dignified returns now and in the future,” Brunner concluded. (September 10)
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