The work on the relocation of irregular migrants to other member states of the European Union has resumed in January with the transfer of over 120 migrants. These migrants will pursue their claim for asylum in the member state participating in the relocation exercise.
The relocation exercise has been coordinated with the European Commission in line with Malta’s calls for the fair sharing of responsibility of the irregular migrants reaching Europe’s shores. All the necessary health protocols related to COVID-19 were followed prior to and during the transfers.
During an informal videoconference between Home Affairs Ministers of the EU, Minister for Home Affairs, National Security and Law Enforcement Byron Camilleri reiterated the government’s strategy on irregular migration. He emphasized the need for more relocations, complimented by joint action to support countries of origin and transit.
“Relocation should be part of the European approach to migration, together with progress on the external dimension with respect to returns and the prevention of crossings,” explained Minister Camilleri.
Work on the relocation exercises has been coordinated by officials of the Ministry for Home Affairs, National Security and Law Enforcement and their counterparts in the other member states.
Preparations on the relocation of migrants also involve the assistance of the Police Immigration Section, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the European Asylum Support Office (EASO). Relocation is co-financed by EU emergency assistance under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF).
