Malta's Chris Fearne urges EU to adopt broader migration strategy

Malta’s foreign minister, Chris Fearne, warned that Europe’s long‑term solution to its migration crisis cannot be achieved solely through border controls. Speaking at a European Union policy forum in Brussels, Fearne urged member states to expand cooperation with countries of origin and transit, arguing that a comprehensive approach is essential to address the root causes of irregular migration.

Fearne cited the growing numbers of migrants arriving by sea, the strain on frontline states, and the need for a coordinated legal framework that balances security with humanitarian obligations. He called for increased funding for development projects in North Africa and the Middle East, enhanced asylum processing capacity, and a shared responsibility system that would allow the EU to manage migration flows more effectively while respecting international law.

The minister concluded that without a broader, multilateral strategy, Europe risks repeating past failures and exacerbating humanitarian pressures. He urged the European Council to adopt a binding migration agreement that incorporates both preventive measures and robust support for destination and transit countries.