Luxembourg: Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection Nicolas Ioannides highlighted the critical need for a comprehensive Return Regulation for Cyprus and the European Union during the EU Justice and Home Affairs Council (Internal Affairs) held on Tuesday, 14 October 2025.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Ioannides, in his arrival statement, emphasized the importance of the Return Regulation in complementing the new EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. He noted that it would ensure effective implementation of returns for third-country nationals. He stressed the balance required between a stricter legal framework and the flexibility needed for Member States like Cyprus, which have effective national return programs. He also mentioned that the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the EU Council would focus on implementing the Pact and adopting the Return Regulation.
The Council’s discussions included a draft Regulation for a common return system for third-country nationals illegally residing in the EU. Ioannides noted that the proposed legislation involves common procedures for issuing return decisions, clear rules for forced returns, stricter timelines, and stronger obligations for returnees to cooperate with national authorities.
According to diplomatic sources, the Danish Presidency of the Council has proposed a compromise that includes reducing or removing administratively burdensome provisions, such as making the European Return Order optional for member states. It also relaxes requirements for agreements with third countries regarding return hubs and allows for longer or indefinite entry bans for individuals posing threats to public order or national security.
EU member states are also negotiating terms for searches, seizures, and collecting biometric data without consent from third-country nationals. Additionally, they discuss the possibility for EU countries to exclude third-country nationals expelled for serious criminal offenses or threats to public order or national security from the Regulation.
During a working lunch, discussions centered on migration’s external dimension, particularly returns to Syria. Ioannides commented on the relative improvement in Syria’s stability, which could facilitate voluntary and forced returns. He noted limited contact with Syrian authorities on migration issues, mainly through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focusing on supporting Syria’s reintegration into the international community in compliance with international law.
Regarding forced returns of Syrians without residency rights, Ioannides stated Cyprus’s support, especially for individuals posing security threats or convicted criminals, while ensuring compliance with international and EU laws. He emphasized that effective returns require security, infrastructure, basic services, and communication channels with Syrian authorities.
He also highlighted the role of international organizations, referencing the first voluntary repatriation flight by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) from Libya to Syria on 8 October. This, he noted, demonstrated potential for broader returns. Cyprus supports expanding such initiatives to build confidence and provide safe return channels.
Lastly, Ioannides conducted meetings with counterparts on the sidelines of the Council, preparing for Cyprus’s EU Council Presidency in January 2026. He discussed Cyprus’s priorities with various ministers, including those from Belgium, Switzerland, Hungary, the Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, and Greece.