PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, SECURITY AND EMPLOYMENT

The Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment, Byron Camilleri attended the Informal Home Affairs Council meeting in Cyprus on Thursday 22 January 2026. The meeting focused on migration and Schengen related matters.

Minister Camilleri reiterated that an effective and well-functioning return system is the cornerstone of a robust migration policy and emphasised that an effective return system cannot rest on a single measure – but requires early and ongoing return counselling with non-refugees, the use of detention in accordance with the law, and well-structured voluntary return pathways.

Minister Camilleri highlighted Malta's recent achievements, noting that last December, in just 17 days, the country successfully managed to return 48 migrants who arrived irregularly in Malta.

The Minister also stressed that reintegration in the country of origin must go hand in hand with return efforts. Reintegration, he noted, should form part of a broader strategic approach – one that strengthens stability, supports long-term development and deepens partnerships with countries of origin.

Malta's recent progress on returns have already delivered concrete results. Irregular arrivals have decreased by 93% when compared to 2019, whereas last year the equivalent of 83% of irregular arrivals were returned to their country of origin.

Photos: MHSE