On May 15, 2026, the United Kingdom and several European countries signed a declaration at a summit in ChiΘinΔu, Moldova, aimed at accelerating the removal of illegal migrants. The agreement calls on national courts to reconsider how they handle migration cases, with the goal of making deportation processes more efficient.
According to the UK Home Office, the declaration was endorsed by leaders from over 10 European nations, including France, Germany, and Italy. It emphasizes the need for faster judicial procedures and closer cooperation between countries to prevent abuses of asylum systems.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the declaration is a 'landmark step' in tackling illegal migration, though critics argue it may undermine due process for asylum seekers. The summit was hosted by Moldovan President Maia Sandu, who highlighted the importance of solidarity in managing migration flows.
No specific targets or timelines for implementation were announced, but the declaration is expected to influence future national legislation and EU-wide policies. The UK has faced record numbers of Channel crossings in 2025, with over 45,000 arrivals, according to official data.
