Bedingfield emphasises stronger opportunities in third countries as EU migration pact sets in

Providing “stronger opportunities” in countries of origin was important to address the root causes of migration, Glenn Bedingfield said at an informal conference of EU ministers in Cyprus.

The informal ministerial meeting was held on Friday to mark the start of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. This was Bedingfield’s first overseas appointment as home affairs minister after the election.

The minister underscored the importance of addressing the root causes of migration, particularly those linked to socio-economic factors such as poverty, climate change and the lack of economic opportunities. He emphasised that increased investment in countries of origin, especially in sectors such as education, agriculture, access to clean water and economic development, would help generate opportunities where they are most needed.

“This is a long-term investment in stability, prosperity and shared security. Every young person given hope at home is one fewer compelled to undertake a perilous journey abroad,” Bedingfield said.

He said the EU pact marked a major political milestone for the union but insisted its true test will lie in its effective implementation. “Much will depend on the fair share of responsibility among member states and that EU countries on the external borders receive meaningful support,” Bedingfield said, echoing similar sentiments expressed by the heads of the Maltese European parliament delegations for the EPP and S&D, David Casa and Alex Agius Saliba.

Bedingfield emphasised that the pact’s measures must be reinforced by proactive migration management, stronger EU external action, effective returns, and decisive action against smuggling networks.