Brussels/New York: The EU and the UN prioritize immigration policies

The IPCM-PICM is closely monitoring developments in immigration within international relations. The European Union and the UN have issued statements on migration policies in recent weeks.

European Union

On December 8, the Council decided to “accelerate and simplify procedures for the return of irregular migrants to Member States. The Regulation establishes EU-wide procedures for their return, imposes obligations on those who do not have the right to remain in the Union, and sets out tools for cooperation between Member States. It also allows Member States to establish return centers in third countries.”

The rationale is that “three out of four irregular migrants who have been subject to a return decision in the EU continue to live here instead of returning home.” More information at https://www.consilium.europa.eu/es/press/press-releases/2025/12/08/council-clinches-deal-on-eu-law-about-returns-of-illegally-staying-third-country-nationals/

Furthermore, the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union, and the European Commission issued a Joint Declaration on December 16 on priorities for 2026. Among these priorities is immigration policy and border management. More information at https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/12/18/eu-institutions-define-priorities-for-2026/

The PICM has always advocated for a common European immigration policy. The PICM believes that a common policy is better than the fragmentation of national policies in this area. We are aware that immigration in one country can affect other countries. Our concern is focused on guaranteeing the rights of Europeans and, at the same time, the rights of migrants. The authorities must be very careful in implementing this common policy.

International Migrants Day 2025

Every migrant’s journey is a story of resilience and possibility, and when migration is managed well, each personal story becomes part of a larger story that enriches cultures, strengthens development, and benefits us all. https://www.un.org/es/observances/migrants-day

This year’s theme, “My Great Story: Cultures and Development,” highlights how human mobility drives growth, enriches societies, and helps communities connect, adapt, and support one another. Learn more at https://spain.iom.int/es/news/dia-internacional-del-migrante-2025.