Migration pact fails to solve EU's migration crisis, says Czech minister

The current discussions around migration within the European Union have highlighted the inadequacy of the existing migration pact. This was echoed by Czech Minister of the Interior Vít Rakušan during a press conference on September 12, 2025, in Valtice, following a meeting of the interior ministers of the Salzburg Forum. He pointed out that despite the decrease in illegal migration numbers in the Czech Republic, the overall situation remains a serious concern for Europe as a whole. The need for immediate action is evident, with calls for additional measures to be implemented to further secure the EU's external borders and enhance the effectiveness of migration policies. In his remarks, Rakušan argued for the establishment of return centers, or hubs, designed specifically to manage the repatriation of refugees and migrants. He suggested that these facilities be located outside the EU, as part of a broader strategy to streamline and expedite returns. This proposal follows a noted increase in cases of illegal residence and illegal migration across EU borders in the first half of the year, with a reported year-on-year rise of 10% in such cases, despite a 62.6% drop in transit migration. This paradox underscores the complexity of the ongoing migration crisis that European countries face. The underlying issues leading to increased migration pressures are often tied to external factors, particularly from regions such as the Western Balkans. Rakušan emphasized the importance of collaborating with third countries to tackle root causes of migration, including political instability, economic hardship, and humanitarian crises that compel individuals to leave their homes. He mentioned that while the migration pact provides a framework for addressing migration issues, it does not fully resolve the challenges that member states encounter when attempting to implement effective migration controls. European Commissioner Magnus Brunner also stated that collaborative efforts among member states have contributed to a 21% decrease in migration overall, with the Western Balkans specifically experiencing a notable 47% decline. However, he acknowledged that these efforts came with challenges, particularly the lack of established rules and oversight governing member states’ individual responses to migration. In conclusion, as the Czech Republic presides over the Salzburg Forum, discussions are pointing to the need for a comprehensive and cohesive approach to migration that extends beyond mere pacts and agreements. It is clear that member states must engage in both immediate actions and strategic planning to effectively manage migration within the EU and cooperate on a broader international scale.