de flag go to the original language article
This article has been translated by Artificial Intelligence (AI). The news agency is not responsible for the content of the translated article. The original was published by APA.

Austria supports initiative against irregular migration

by AI | 03.Oct 2025 | Europe in brief AI

Ten European countries – including Austria – met on the sidelines of the summit in Copenhagen and called for a tougher approach to irregular migration. Austria’s conservative Chancellor, Christian Stocker, sees his country as a “pioneer” in terms of deportations.

Austria remains the only European country that carries out deportations to Syria, Stocker said. Photo: APA/Federal Chancellery/Christopher Dunker

Copenhagen (APA) – On the sidelines of the summit of the European Political Community in Copenhagen, several participants met on Thursday – including Austria’s Chancellor Christian Stocker from the conservative ÖVP and EU Parliament President Roberta Metsola – to strengthen the joint fight against irregular migration in Europe. The Danish government, which currently holds the EU Council presidency, is considered a hardliner in the fight against irregular migration.

In a joint statement, the heads of state and government of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Austria, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, and Andorra emphasized “the need for a comprehensive approach and innovations to keep pace with the constantly changing challenges of illegal migration.” They aim to support each other in their efforts in key areas.

Intensified Fight Against Smugglers

They want to take stronger action against smuggling gangs and make the external borders more secure. A “robust legal framework and asylum systems” should protect against exploitation but deter those “who attempt to undermine our systems.” International frameworks, including the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and the Refugee Convention, should be implemented in a way that protects against abuse and enables governments to address modern challenges. In May, a letter from nine EU countries caused severe criticism: They called for a change in the interpretation of the ECHR to make it easier to deport foreign criminals. The initiative launched by Denmark and Italy was also joined by Austria.

The states also emphasize in their statement the importance of enabling efficient and effective returns. New and innovative partnerships, including with third countries, should accelerate processing and reduce pressure domestically. “We must return those who do not have the right to stay in our country. Just today (Thursday; note) Austria has again deported a Syrian criminal to Syria. Austria remains the only European country that carries out deportations to Syria and is thus a European pioneer,” said Stocker. The EU interior ministers want to discuss the new EU legislative proposal for returns at their next meeting on October 14 in Luxembourg. (02.10.2025)