Byron Camilleri Attends Brussels Meeting Of EU Home Affairs Ministers

The Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment, Byron Camilleri, attended the Council meeting of Home Affairs Ministers in Brussels on Monday, 8 December 2025, where discussions centred on migration and Schengen related matters.

He noted that the meeting built on the constructive dialogue initiated during the MED5 Ministerial Meeting held in Malta the previous week.

Following weeks of negotiations, the Council reached an agreement on the establishment of the first annual solidarity pool for 2026.

Through this mechanism, Member States experiencing migratory pressure will receive assistance either through relocations or financial support.

Minister Camilleri recalled that Malta had endured a prolonged migration crisis as irregular arrivals increased sharply, prompting repeated appeals for solidarity from its European partners.

He stressed that the situation has since changed considerably. Through targeted investment in prevention and return measures, the Government has reversed the trend and addressed the challenges posed by irregular migration, resulting in Malta no longer being classified as a Member State under migratory pressure.

Despite this progress, the Minister reaffirmed Malta’s commitment to supporting other Member States, particularly fellow MED5 countries. He emphasised that Malta’s geographic position means it remains vulnerable and must stay prepared for potential future pressures.

He underscored that solidarity is essential to the European Union and that without it, an effective Pact on Migration and Asylum cannot be realised.

The Council also endorsed the Commission’s Proposal for a Return Regulation. Minister Camilleri welcomed this development, noting that a strong and credible return system is crucial for an effective migration policy.

He highlighted Malta’s own progress, including a dedicated returns unit and stronger cooperation with key third countries, which contributed to a 93 per cent reduction in irregular arrivals compared to 2019 and a returns to arrivals ratio of 78 per cent in 2025.

The Minister concluded by stressing the importance of reinforcing the Schengen area, enhancing cooperation with third countries, and ensuring vigilance against emerging security threats through the full use of existing tools such as the Schengen Information System.

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