Council of the European Union:" The European migration strategy is beginning to bear fruit"

The European migration strategy is beginning to bear fruit

In February 2016 the European Council decided to take steps to close the Western Balkan route. On 18 March, EU leaders agreed with the Prime Minister of Turkey to enhance cooperation.

Since then, total daily arrivals from Turkey to the Greek islands have fallen from almost 7.000 daily in October last year to fewer than 50 per day in May 2016. The effects of this can be seen across Europe. This sharp decrease in arrivals shows that it is possible to break the business model of smugglers and help save lives.

The European Council on 28-29 June will turn its attention to cooperation with third countries of origin and transit. It will look at how to improve the return rates of irregular migrants reaching Europe from Africa through the Central Mediterranean.