The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has urged Ireland to use its upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union to promote balanced, practical, and evidence-based migration policies across the bloc.
As Ireland prepares to take over the EU Presidency, IOM says the country will play a key role in turning recently approved migration reforms into real action. The organization believes the Presidency comes at a crucial time, as EU member states begin implementing the Pact on Migration and Asylum while also negotiating the bloc’s next long-term budget.
Lukas Gehrke, Director of IOM’s Global Office in Brussels, said the focus should now shift from agreeing on reforms to delivering practical results. He stressed that successful migration management requires policies based on reliable evidence, strong cooperation among countries, and predictable long-term investment that supports both migrants and host communities.
Although irregular migration into the European Union has fallen in recent years, IOM noted that dangerous migration routes continue to claim lives, particularly along the Central Mediterranean. At the same time, most people continue to enter the EU through regular migration channels. Every year, millions of residence permits are issued for work, education, and family reunification, highlighting the important role migration plays in supporting Europe’s labour market and economic competitiveness.
To improve migration management, IOM is recommending stronger investment in migration data systems, early warning mechanisms, and future planning tools. The organization believes these measures will help governments better understand changing migration patterns driven by conflict, climate change, economic pressures, and other global challenges.
The organization also called for practical and flexible implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum. Since EU member states are currently developing new systems to apply the agreement, Ireland is expected to help coordinate cooperation, address implementation challenges, and ensure that common standards are respected while allowing flexibility for different national circumstances.
IOM further stressed the importance of maintaining a balanced migration system that combines effective border management, fair asylum procedures, efficient return processes, and strong protection of migrants’ rights. The recommendations also encourage greater use of digital technology and closer cooperation between EU member states and European agencies to improve the delivery of migration services.
Beyond the EU’s borders, IOM urged European countries to strengthen partnerships with countries of origin and transit. According to the organization, closer cooperation can help address the root causes of irregular migration, expand safe and legal migration opportunities, and promote shared responsibility for managing migration flows.
The recommendations also highlight the growing impact of conflict, political instability, and climate-related disasters on global displacement. IOM believes migration should be fully integrated into wider EU policies on development, humanitarian assistance, and climate action. It says governments need long-term strategies that prepare for climate-related mobility while helping vulnerable communities become more resilient.
Labour migration also remains a key priority. IOM says initiatives such as the EU Talent Pool and Talent Partnerships can help address labour shortages across Europe while ensuring fair recruitment practices and protecting the rights of migrant workers.
Drawing on its global presence and experience, IOM reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ireland and EU member states as they work to build a migration system that is practical, humane, and sustainable. The organization says balanced policies backed by cooperation and long-term investment will be essential to meeting Europe’s future migration challenges.