Migration
Leaders will discuss migration policy. They are expected to underline the need for a comprehensive approach to migration and the importance of effective control at the EU’s external borders.
The heads of state or government are expected to highlight the achievements since the height of the crisis in 2015. Illegal migration has since been reduced by more than 95%.
Leaders should discuss the latest developments on the Eastern and Western Mediterranean routes and offer further support to member states and partners, as well as countries of origin and transit. They are also expected to agree on increased support for Libyan authorities, and the Libyan Coastguard in particular, in dealing with migration challenges.
With the aim of breaking the business model of smugglers, the European Council is expected to agree on further exploring the concept of regional disembarkation platforms, in close cooperation with relevant third countries, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
In terms of funding, it is hoped that member states will be in a position to welcome an agreement on the financing of the facility for refugees in Turkey and the EU trust fund for Africa. Leaders are also expected to call for a new and dedicated external migration management facility to be included under the next EU long term budget (MFF).
The European Council should also address the need for a significant increase in the effective return of irregular migrants, a strengthening of the European Border and Coastguard Agency (Frontex) and a reduction in secondary movements of migrants within the EU.
Finally, taking note of progress made on the reform of the Common European Asylum System, leaders are expected to agree on continuing work on finding a consensus based on a balance of responsibility and solidarity.
- Reform of EU asylum rules (background information)
- Finding solutions to migratory pressures (background information)
Security and defence
In terms of security and defence, leaders are expected to discuss EU-NATO cooperation ahead of the NATO summit in July and provide orientations for further work, in particular on permanent structured cooperation (PESCO). The European Council should also address military mobility, the European Defence Fund, the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP) and Civilian Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).
