The European Commission said on Tuesday that Greece, Cyprus, Spain and Italy will be eligible for assistance to manage migratory pressures under a new EU mechanism once the bloc’s migration and asylum pact takes effect in mid-2026.
Under the reforms, member states must choose how to contribute through a “solidarity pool.” Options include relocating asylum seekers, providing additional funding to the four Mediterranean countries, or offering other operational measures.
The Commission noted that irregular border crossings fell by 35 percent between July 2024 and June 2025, but warned that challenges persist. “Greece and Cyprus are under migratory pressure due to the disproportionate level of arrivals over the last year. Spain and Italy are also under migratory pressure because of a disproportionate number of arrivals following search and rescue at sea in the same period,” it said.
Priority access to tools
Beyond the four, the Commission identified Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, France, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands and Poland as at risk of pressure. These countries will receive priority access to the EU’s migration support toolbox.
Border security package
Brussels also announced a €250 million tender to help member states acquire drone and anti-drone capabilities, aimed at bolstering security against hybrid threats and incursions. Six member states, predominantly on the EU’s eastern flank, will be able to seek a full or partial deduction from their “solidarity pool” contributions, citing cumulative pressures over the past five years.
With the pact entering into force in mid-2026, capitals must now indicate whether they will offer relocations, financial support, or practical assistance to the four frontline states, and how they plan to use the wider toolbox if they are deemed at risk.
Source: Reuters