On 3 February 2026, a high-level roundtable in Larnaca, Cyprus, addressed current migration challenges across the Mediterranean route and beyond. The event gathered experts, National Preventive Mechanisms (NPMs) from all across Europe, and representatives from key European bodies for to exchange views and strengthen co-operation in support of humane, law-compliant migration practices.

Discussions focused on overcrowded reception centres and the need to further enhance human rights safeguards at Europe’s borders. Particular attention was given to the protection of vulnerable persons, including unaccompanied children, women, and trafficking victims. Reference was notably made to CPT standards on immigration detention and Council of Europe guidance, while also considering the work of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA). Emphasis was placed on ensuring that detention is used only as a measure of last resort, in line with the principles of necessity and proportionality.

Practical cooperation measures and reinforced monitoring tools were explored to better protect migrants during reception, transfers, and return procedures, underscoring that migration is not about managing borders but also ensuring human rights and dignity.

The roundtable reaffirmed the participants’ shared commitment to transparency, collaboration, and a rights-based approach to migration governance across Europe.

The Roundtable was organised under the project, "Technical support for more effective and resilient National Preventive Mechanisms," co-funded by the European Union through the Technical Support Instrument and implemented by the Council of Europe in cooperation with the European Commission.