On 9–10 March, the EU ministers for justice and home affairs met in Brussels for the first formal Justice and Home Affairs (JHA) Council during the Swedish Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Home affairs (9 March 2023)
Migration and asylum were one of the agenda’s key items on the first day at the Justice and Home Affairs Council in Brussels. At the meeting the ministers discussed the internal and external aspects of migration and highlighted the need to step up implementation of the action plans on the Central Mediterranean and Western Balkan routes.
Migration is a European challenge that requires a European response. We must do even more to stop migrant smuggling and fight organised crime groups who scrupulously abuse migrants.
Swedish Minister for Migration Maria Malmer Stenergard
Another key item on the agenda on 9 March was the Schengen area, the discussions about the future of visa policy and how to make it more strategic and sustainable. The ministers called on the Commission to come forward in the coming months with a legislative proposal to amend the visa suspension mechanism to make it more efficient.
They also took note of the entry into operation of the enhanced Schengen Information System (SIS), which went live on 7 March, and exchanged views on the implementation of interoperability, in particular the timeline for the start of operation of the Entry/Exit System (EES).
The fight against organised crime is a priority for the Swedish presidency and the enhanced SIS will be an important part of the interoperability framework.
Swedish Minister for Justice Gunnar Strömmer
The Council also adopted, as an item without discussion, its position at first reading on visa free travel for holders of passports issued by Kosovo.
Press release: Kosovo – Council gives green light to visa free travel
Justice (10 March 2023)
On the second day, fundamental rights and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine were in focus.
The Council approved conclusions on the role of civic space in protecting and promoting fundamental rights in the EU, which emphasise the essential role freedom of association plays in ensuring a democratic and pluralist society and the proper functioning of public life.
Press release: Council approves conclusions on the role of the civic space
Ministers also assessed the state of play concerning the judicial responses and the fight against impunity regarding crimes committed in connection with Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
The Swedish Presidency, and the EU, continue to fully support Ukraine. We as justice ministers stand firm in our commitment to do our part in ensuring full accountability for crimes committed in connection with Russia’s war of aggression.”
Swedish Minister for Justice Gunnar Strömmer
Another topic that the ministers discussed was the fight against crime. The ministers discussed the threat which organised crime in relation to drug trafficking poses to European societies and what more can be done on the issue.
There was a strong determination from all Minsters of Justice to take strong measures to fight against drug trafficking.
European Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders
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Source – EU Council (Swedish Presidency)