During the Council of Ministers of the Interior of the Slovak Republic, the Minister of the Interior, Matúš Šutaj Eštok, discussed with European counterparts the first cycle of migration management and the so-called solidarity reserve under the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. Slovakia reaffirmed its long-standing position against mandatory solidarity measures, including compulsory relocation of asylum seekers and mandatory financial contributions as an alternative to relocation.
The Minister emphasised that Slovakia has consistently opposed proposals that fail to take into account the specific circumstances of individual Member States. He also expressed concern that Slovakia has not been recognised as a country under long-term migratory pressure, despite receiving approximately one hundred new applications for temporary protection daily from people fleeing the war in Ukraine.
Slovakia further noted that several of its proposals and comments were not reflected in negotiations with the European Commission, which contributed to its decision not to support the establishment of a solidarity reserve. The rejection was justified by the need to ensure dignified reception conditions for persons displaced by the war in Ukraine, while also preparing for risks related to irregular migration along the Western Balkans route.
Discussions at the meeting also covered proposed changes to the concept of a safe third country, which would allow the return of asylum seekers to such countries based on transit or EU agreements, as well as the creation of a first common EU list of safe countries of origin aimed at accelerating asylum procedures. Slovakia highlighted the importance of effective returns of persons not entitled to protection, supported mutual recognition of return decisions among Member States, and expressed interest in the forthcoming return regulation, including the possible establishment of return centres in third countries.