Second Swiss contribution, migration framework credit: Opening of negotiations with Greece, Cyprus and Bulgaria
Bern, 13.09.2024 - The migration framework credit in the second Swiss contribution is being applied in two phases. With a view to implementing the second phase (2025–29), the Federal Council has approved the opening of negotiations with Greece, Cyprus and Bulgaria. This financial contribution supports better management of migration in Europe, which also benefits Switzerland.
Migration is a priority area in Switzerland's second contribution to selected EU member states. The migration framework credit amounts to CHF 200 million. Partner countries are selected on the basis of a number of criteria, including the scale of migratory flows, the structural needs of the country concerned and Switzerland's interests.
Implementation in two phases
The cooperation programmes in the first phase began in September 2022 in Greece and Cyprus, with funding of CHF 40 million and CHF 10 million respectively. In Italy, the programme was launched in July of this year and received CHF 20 million.
With a view to implementing the second phase (2025–29), Switzerland is to launch negotiations to renew its cooperation with Greece, Cyprus and Bulgaria. Switzerland already cooperates with the latter two countries on cohesion projects. Negotiations will focus on the areas which are to receive support and the amount to be allocated to each programme, from a total of CHF 70 million available. The principles and rules of implementation will be identical to those of the first phase.
Objectives and content
The migration framework credit is aimed at strengthening migration management structures in Europe. The areas that may receive a financial contribution are asylum procedures, infrastructure, assistance with voluntary return and reintegration, and integration measures to prevent irregular secondary migration.
In addition to bilateral cooperation programmes, the credit also feeds a Rapid Response Fund for EU countries experiencing significant migratory movements. This has been crucial in supporting EU member states receiving large numbers of people from Ukraine seeking protection.
Address for enquiries
Information and Communication Service SEM, medien@sem.admin.ch
Publisher
The Federal Council
https://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start.html
Federal Department of Justice and Police
http://www.ejpd.admin.ch
State Secretariat for Migration
https://www.sem.admin.ch/sem/en/home.html
