Nicosia: The recovery of proceeds from crime, the return of illegally trafficked cultural goods, and alternative approaches for young drug users will be at the center of discussions on Friday at the Informal Council of EU Justice and Home Affairs Ministers taking place in Nicosia, under the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
According to Cyprus News Agency, opening the meeting, Cyprus Minister of Justice and Public Order, Costas Fytiris, stated that the initial agenda item was enhancing the capability to recover assets derived from criminal activities in a constantly evolving economic environment. He added that Ministers would also deliberate on restoring justice in cases of illegal cross-border trafficking of cultural goods, with a particular focus on the return of cultural property that has been unlawfully removed. The meeting will conclude with a working lunch dedicated to promoting alternative treatment for young drug users encountering the criminal justice system.
In doorstep statements upon arrival, EU ministers emphasized the connection between organized crime, drug trafficking, digital platforms, and violence. Estonia's Minister of Judicial and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, highlighted the necessity for coordinated European action in the digital sphere, stating the importance of EU unity in controlling the digital space. Pakosta pointed out the increasing use of digital platforms by young people to access drugs and called for stronger EU oversight of large social media companies. She also mentioned the need for unified action to return cultural heritage to its rightful countries, citing Estonia's unresolved claims for cultural property taken by Russia during and after the Second World War, alongside similar issues concerning Ukraine.
Belgian Minister of Justice, Annelies Verlinden, expressed gratitude to the Cypriot Presidency for prioritizing drug trafficking on the agenda, warning that criminal networks are fueling violence and increasingly exploiting young people. Verlinden noted the rise in violence levels and the involvement of youngsters in drug cartels' operations. She highlighted the challenge of confiscating criminal assets, pointing out that only 2% of the 188 billion euros circulating in the criminal world are seized. Verlinden stressed the need for the EU to target the financial foundations of organized crime to dismantle its business model.
Spain's Minister of the Presidency, Justice, and Relations with Parliament, F©lix Bola±os, addressed the meeting, expressing satisfaction with his participation in the informal Council in Cyprus and thanking the Cypriot authorities for their hospitality. He also conveyed condolences on behalf of the Spanish government to the families of the victims of the recent railway accident in Adamuz and wished a speedy recovery to the injured, noting that efforts to clarify the causes of the incident and restore services are ongoing.