More than 100 participants joined in person and online to exchange views and discuss the role of civil society in the implementation of the New Pact on Migration and Asylum.

The Commission highlighted that the Pact foresees various roles for the non-governmental and civil society organisations, especially in the area of information provision, reception and integration. NGOs can help public authorities provide legal counselling to applicants in all asylum procedures, and can be involved in independent monitoring mechanisms to ensure respect of fundamental rights in EU countries.

NGOs expressed their hope for the Commission, in its role leading on the implementation, to encourage EU countries to work with civil society. They also shared questions and concerns on the border procedure and safeguards of fundamental rights. They touched on the challenge of becoming involved at national level and stressed the need for resources.

NGOs also underlined the need to better explain the Pact. In this regard, please note that EMN Belgium, together with its partners, organises a conference on 25 and 26 June 2024 on the operationalisation and implementation of the Pact.

The Commission envisages continuing the dialogue with NGOs and civil society for the months and years to come, including at the 2024 European Migration Forum, at the EUAA Consultative Forum, as well as in country visits.

For further information, please read the press release from the European Commission.