The Division on Migration and Refugees (DMR) has published a summary report on the online thematic session of the Council of Europe Network of Focal Points on Migration (NFPM), which was held on 30 January 2026 and focused on the development of Independent Monitoring Mechanisms (IMMs) at borders.

The session brought together representatives of member states, Council of Europe bodies,  EU and UN institutions and ENNHRI to discuss applicable European and international standards, as well as practical challenges related to the establishment and functioning of IMMs. Recalling that the establishment of IMMs at borders has been provided for by the EU “Screening Regulation” 2024/1356, the session underlined the importance of IMMs for safeguarding migrants’ rights and preventing abuses, with reference to established standards from the Council of Europe, EU, and UN. Discussions also tackled key requirements for effective monitoring, including institutional independence, adequate and sustainable resources, relevant expertise, broad and clearly defined mandates, access to all relevant locations and documentation.

The work of NFPM, managed by DMR, aims to support member states in the field of migration and asylum by exchanging good practices and enhancing co-operation between different stakeholders in the member states and the Council of Europe.