The key facts

  • The UK, Italy and Denmark issued a joint statement on illegal migration
  • The document was released after the European Political Community summit in Dublin
  • The statement builds on priorities outlined earlier in Yerevan

Joint statement of the three countries

The United Kingdom, Italy and Denmark on Friday called for a 'more comprehensive, systematic' approach to countering illegal migration and the criminal activity that facilitates it. In a joint statement, the leaders of the three countries reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the reduction of illegal migration to and within Europe, recognising the common challenges it creates.

From Yerevan to Dublin

'Building on the priorities set out in Yerevan (Armenia), the leaders underscored the need for a more comprehensive, systematic approach along the whole route to countering illegal migration and the crime associated with it,' the statement says. The declaration, which was also endorsed by several other countries, was issued after the European Political Community summit held on Thursday in Dublin.

Priorities: borders, returns, information sharing

The leaders stressed the importance of readiness and effective measures to maintain the integrity of borders, counter disinformation, promote innovation and strengthen cooperation along migration routes. They also pointed to the need for effective return and readmission procedures, greater intergovernmental information sharing and adherence to international conventions as the basis for protection. The statement notes a commitment to international cooperation on these issues, including continued engagement with the European Union and the Council of Europe.