On 12 and 13 June 2014, the European Migration Network Conference 2014 took place on "Irregular migration and return: challenges and practices". The Conference was organised in Athens, within the framework of the Hellenic Presidency of the EU Council.

This year, the EMN Conference aims to support the policymaking process on a number of key areas of irregular migration policy, namely readmission, return, reintegration and cooperation with countries of transit and origin, as well as re-entry bans and (alternatives to) detention.

The Court of Cassation ruled today that an administrative fine is due for carrying someone who doesn't hold documents to enter or transit Belgium, even if at the border an authorization to enter is issued.

In a Communication adopted today, the Commission stresses that Member States have generally ensured that the Return Directive is transposed in their national law but that there is scope for improvement in the practical implementation of the Directive and of return policies in general.

Today, on 14 February 2014, the first meeting took place of the Return and Reintegration Experts' Group (REG) under auspices of the European Migration Network. REG incorporates the former work of the Voluntary Return European Network.

The ERI Final Conference, which will take place in Brussels on 6 February, will address the experiences gained, results achieved and ideas for future cooperation in the area of return and reintegration.

In its ruling n° 166/2013 taken today 19 December 2013, the Constitutional Court rejected the appeal introduced with regard to the detention of families with children.

The tragedy in Lampedusa prompted an unprecedented call for action by EU leaders and citizens. On 4 December, the Commission proposed ways to increase solidarity and mutual support in order to prevent migrants' death in the Mediterranean.

On 2 December the European Border Surveillance System becomes operational. EUROSUR will make an important contribution to saving lives and will also equip the EU and its Member States with better tools to prevent cross-border crimes and to detect and provide assistance to migrant boats in distress.

Today 2 December 2013, the European Border Surveillance System (EUROSUR) becomes operational. EUROSUR should allow Member States to react much faster to any incidents concerning irregular migration and cross-border crime or relating to a risk to the lives of migrants.

The UN Committee against Torture (CAT) expressed both positive and negative observations on Belgium, following the examination of the third periodic report on Belgium.

The Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants (PICUM) together with Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE), invite you to join a discussion on how the European Union can ensure the rights of undocumented migrant children and their families.

On 7 and 8 October, the JHA Council held its 3260th meeting, discussing several topics, including the recent case of Lampedusa, the protection of Syrian refugees and freedom of movement.

Today, 3 october 2013, the law of 2 June 2013 (published on 23 september 2013) has entered into force. The act amends the Civil Code, the Penal Code, the Judicial Code and the Aliens Act, to strengthen the fight against marriages and legal cohabitations of convenience.

PICUM's Annual International Workshop, that will take place on 28 June 2013 in the International Auditorium in Brussels, will explore the housing situation of undocumented migrants.

During this morning session, ADDE proposes to highlight and discuss applicable rules, recent case law and practices in the field of removal and return of foreigners.