Comments
On September 29, 2021, the European Commission presented its Report on Migration and Asylum. The Commission has also adopted an updated EU Action Plan Against Migrant Smuggling and a Communication on the Application of the Employers Sanctions Directive. The Commission, by presenting and adopting these documents, which are a reflection and follow-up to the New Pact on Migration and Asylum dated September 23, 2020, aims to further prevent organized exploitation of migrants and reduce irregular migration. The Report explains achievements and key developments in migration and asylum policy, identifies the key challenges, emphasizes the progress prospects, and sets out further steps for a better migration and asylum policy. The Report consists of remarks about the situation in Afghanistan, impact of COVID-19 on migration management, EU support to Greece, and the EU reaction to arrivals from Belarus. The Report also includes recommendations for strengthening the legislative framework, working with international partners, and integration and inclusion. The Action Plan sets out the further steps for better implementation of the legal framework for anti-smuggling legislation, whereas the Communication identifies actions to improve implementation of the Employers Sanctions Directive.