FRA bulletin highlights fundamental rights challenges following the entry into application of the Pact on Migration and Asylum

The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) published its second Migration and Fundamental Rights Bulletin for 2026, examining developments between April and June 2026. The bulletin reports on fundamental rights issues related to migration, asylum and border management across the European Union as the Pact on Migration and Asylum entered into application on 12 June 2026.

According to the bulletin, deaths and disappearances continued to occur along Mediterranean and Atlantic migration routes despite a reduction in overall arrivals. The report also notes ongoing legal and administrative challenges faced by some civil society organisations involved in search-and-rescue activities at sea. In several Member States, courts have reviewed or overturned sanctions imposed on rescue organisations.

The bulletin documents reports of summary returns, allegations of violence and restrictions on access to asylum procedures along several migration routes, including the Eastern Mediterranean, Balkan and Belarus routes. FRA noted that investigations into alleged violations of fundamental rights at borders remain limited in a number of cases, although judicial scrutiny and monitoring activities have increased in some Member States.

Regarding people displaced from Ukraine, the report highlights discussions on extending temporary protection until March 2028 and preparations by Member States for a future transition to national residence arrangements. FRA emphasised the importance of ensuring legal certainty and continued access to rights during any transition process.

The bulletin also reviews policy and operational developments affecting migration management. It notes that the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum introduces new requirements for Member States, including the establishment of independent fundamental rights monitoring mechanisms during border screening and asylum border procedures. FRA has developed a common monitoring methodology and is testing it with several Member States.