Ylva Johansson says Europe's new migration pact is 'a huge achievement'

The European Parliament gave the Pact on Migration and Asylum the greenlight on 10 April - a comprehensive set of rules establishing a common asylum system that builds upon previous reforms.

The narrowly-approved measures aim to improve border protection, enhance cooperation on asylum and monitor the reception of migrants and their relocation.

While the European Commission hailed the landmark pact as a fair agreement grounded in EU values, some member states and MEPs from across the political spectrum criticised the deal.

Approving lawmakers described it as a necessary move, however, many Green and left-wing MEPs said the package panders to right-wing populists.

The reform requires 'mandatory solidarity' to ensure all countries, regardless of their size and location, help alleviate the pressure that illegal migrant landings place on southern Europe, this includes resettlement and streamlined bureaucracy at national borders.

Germany described the deal as a 'historic, indispensable step' for the European Union. Poland, Hungary and France's National Rally, on the other hand, voiced their dissatisfaction with the pact arguing it goes against national sovereignty. Meanwhile, NGOs and activists stated it does not go far enough to protect people's lives and human rights.

The pact's approval comes just weeks before the European elections on 6-9 June where it is expected to play a key role, but first, member states are scheduled to vote on the proposal on 29 April. If a qualified majority is reached, it will be adopted. 

Euronews Correspondent Vincenzo Genovese sat down with the European Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, to discuss opposition to the agreement and why Brussels maintains the deal will enhance the EU's ability