Joint Letter to President Costa, President von der Leyen, and the Taoiseach Calling for a Common Response to Migratory Pressure at the EU's External Borders.

We recognise that the recent ruling of the Spanish Supreme Court has been used to trigger this attack and abuse our migration and asylum system. At the same time, we have a duty to effectively deter and relentlessly combat illegal migration, by coordinating our action, strengthening our external borders and addressing all policies that can serve as pull factors, such as the regularization of very large number of irregular migrants.

We cannot allow uncontrolled mass crossings, the instrumentalisation of migration or other hybrid threats to create the perception that illegal entry into the European Union is possible. That a migrant’s illegal entry can turn into legal stay.  

Such a perception would encourage further attempts, undermine confidence in our common migration policy and have repercussions for all Member States. The current situation also underlines the importance of the Chisinau Declaration on migration and the need for its swift and effective implementation.

The events of the last days require an immediate and coordinated European response. We welcome that Spain and Morocco are cooperating closely to ensure the swift return of migrants that entered illegally and that a large number of them have already been returned. We expect that, with the support of the European Union, the current situation will come under full control.

In light of the seriousness of the situation, we would ask the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union to convene, as a matter of urgency, an extraordinary videoconference of the Ministers of the Interior. This meeting should allow for a common assessment of the situation and agreement on a coordinated European response, including the rapid mobilisation of available EU instruments and the necessary support to Spain to restore effective control of the Union’s external border and prevent further uncontrolled crossings. Ministers should in particular consider enhanced Frontex support and the effectiveness of EU cooperation with Morocco. 

We take note that no unauthorized onward movements have been recorded towards Europe. We reiterate our readiness to take any necessary measures, in accordance with Union law and the Schengen Borders Code, to safeguard public order and address risks arising from secondary movements, including through reinforcing or reintroducing temporary internal border controls.

The European Council has consistently stressed that protecting the Union’s external borders, preventing illegal migration and secondary movements, and ensuring solidarity with Member States at the frontline or under particular pressure are shared European responsibilities. The current situation calls for unity, determination and urgency.

We count on your leadership to ensure that the European Union responds swiftly, effectively and in a coordinated manner.

Yours sincerely,