EU migration and asylum pact takes effect across member states
From 12 June 2024 the European Union’s new migration and asylum pact began full implementation in all member states. The package consists of ten binding legislative acts adopted in 2024 that overhaul border management, asylum procedures and the sharing of responsibility for migrants.
Key provisions include a mandatory solidarity mechanism that can mobilise up to €420 million and the relocation of up to 21 000 asylum seekers from pressure‑point countries (Cyprus, Greece, Italy and Spain). Six countries – Austria, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Croatia and Poland – may request exemption from contributing to the fund. The pact also introduces faster border screening, possible detention of asylum seekers for up to six months, accelerated removal procedures and tighter checks via Eurodac. Children must receive education within two months and have multidisciplinary age assessments. Adults gain the right to work after six months instead of nine.
Member states are at different stages of readiness. Slovenia has not yet adopted the required national law, drawing criticism from its interior minister, while Croatia confirmed it can apply for a partial exemption. The new rules aim to create “safer external borders, solidarity among states and more efficient asylum and return procedures,” as stated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.