The European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) Group today strongly welcomed the adoption of revised rules on the application of the Safe Third Country concept as an important step towards a more effective and credible European asylum system.

For the ECR Group, the agreement introduces greater legal clarity, more workable procedures and the necessary flexibility for Member States to manage migration in a responsible and realistic way.

ECR Shadow Rapporteur Assita Kanko said, speaking after the adoption:

“This is a necessary and positive step. More efficient procedures and clearer rules will strengthen our asylum systems and undermine the business model of people smugglers.”

Under the adopted framework, Member States will be able to designate safe third countries and conclude agreements allowing asylum applications to be processed outside the European Union. The reform helps reduce legal uncertainty, strengthens the enforceability of decisions and improves the overall functioning of asylum procedures.

Appeals against inadmissibility decisions will no longer automatically grant the right to remain during the appeal procedure, helping to avoid prolonged uncertainty and reinforcing confidence in national systems.

“People who genuinely need protection must receive it, but not necessarily in the European Union. Effective protection can also be provided in a safe third country, while individual assessment remains fully guaranteed”, Kanko said.

The new rules fully respect international law and fundamental rights. EU law does not require a personal link between the applicant and the safe third country, giving Member States the flexibility to apply the concept according to operational needs and cooperation with partner countries.

Unaccompanied minors remain excluded from the reform, except in narrowly defined security-related situations, where existing safeguards continue to apply. Looking ahead, the ECR Group stressed the need to continue improving return procedures.

“Currently, only around 20 percent of rejected asylum applicants are effectively returned. This must change. Clearer rules, effective procedures and stronger European cooperation are essential to significantly increase return rates. We will continue to support practical and workable solutions”, Kanko said.