In a significant address in Brussels, Thanos Plevris, Greece's Minister of Migration and Asylum, underlined the necessity for a reduction in migration flows alongside a rise in the number of returns of migrants, in alignment with the new EU Pact on Migration and Asylum set to be fully operational by June 12, 2026. Plevris highlighted the pressing need for substantial and practical European support towards frontline states, underscoring Greece's pivotal role in the ongoing migration crisis. He reiterated the importance of a balanced approach that includes deterrence in border management rather than solely relying on search and rescue efforts.

During the Justice and Home Affairs Council session, Plevris presented Greece's positions on implementing the European Pact, which aims to create a more cohesive and effective migration and asylum framework across EU member states. The Minister stressed the transitional nature of the current circumstances leading up to the full application of the new pact, indicating a critical window for adopting effective strategies that could stabilize migration flows and enhance overall European solidarity in addressing the issue. He called for an open discourse on border protection and adequate measures that could reinforce the capacity of countries like Greece, which face the brunt of migration influxes.

The remarks made by Plevris mark a crucial step in shaping the EU’s approach to migration management, especially given the contingency procedures being discussed for handling irregular migration and the evolving dynamics of global displacement. His call for action resonates with a broader EU strategy that seeks to balance humanitarian responsibilities with practical governance in migration, as member states grapple with the ongoing challenges of integration, security, and humanitarian aid. The outcomes of these discussions may have a significant impact on future policies and the extent of cooperation between EU countries on migration issues.