The European Commission has welcomed a political declaration on migration adopted by the Council of Europe during a ministerial conference in Chisinau.
According to a statement issued on Friday, the declaration underlines the importance of the European Convention on Human Rights and the values underpinning the Council of Europe, which also form a common foundation for the European Union.
European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner said the declaration represents an important step towards promoting both citizens’ security and fundamental rights.
He added that it reinforces the EU’s approach to a fair and firm migration policy, stressing that migration is a shared challenge requiring common solutions.
The Commission also noted that it contributes actively to the discussion at all levels, including within the United Nations, the Council of Europe and the European Union.
The declaration addresses key aspects of migration management, including irregular arrivals, the instrumentalisation of migration and the return of third‑country nationals residing illegally. Its aim is to strike a balance between public interest and the protection of individual rights.
It also highlights that the Convention is a 'living instrument' which must be interpreted in light of current conditions in order to respond to emerging challenges, an approach aligned with the Commission’s efforts to develop new migration management tools.
According to the statement, the protection of societies and borders, alongside adherence to EU values, remains central to the Union’s migration policy, as reflected in the Pact on Migration and Asylum.
The Commission also stressed the importance of its long‑standing cooperation with the Council of Europe and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, democracy, the rule of law and human rights across Europe. It added that strategic alignment between the two sides remains strong and that it stands ready to continue cooperation with member states to address current and future migration challenges.
The declaration follows a call by participants at the informal ministerial conference on 10 December 2025 for the Committee of Ministers to prepare the text, which was subsequently adopted under the presidency of the Republic of Moldova.
The Commission also underlined the need to strengthen efforts against migrant smuggling, as highlighted at the Global Alliance to Counter Migrant Smuggling conference in December 2025, and said it will continue to monitor relevant work by the Council of Europe.
Source: CNA
