EU migration pact implementation and returns regulation approval

The European Union began implementing its new Migration and Asylum Pact on June 12, 2026. On June 17, 2026, the European Parliament approved a new Returns Regulation following a political agreement reached on June 1, 2026. Cyprus Deputy Minister for Migration and International Protection, Nicholas Ioannides, stated that these developments are crucial for frontline nations and represent successes for the Cyprus Presidency of the EU Council. The new framework introduces stricter border controls, faster asylum processing, and solidarity mechanisms among member states. Ioannides reported that government measures in Cyprus have reduced irregular migration flows by 90% compared to 2022 levels. Additionally, approximately 35,000 third-country nationals have departed the country as part of these efforts. Legislation regarding criminal offenses involving foreign nationals has also been strengthened to complement the new policy. The Deputy Minister emphasized that the adoption of these regulations marks the beginning of a demanding implementation phase.