The second Annual Migration Management Cycle includes three main components:

• European Annual Asylum and Migration Report: The report points to an overall improvement in the EU’s migration situation. Irregular border crossings fell by more than half over the past two years, while unauthorised movements and asylum applications decreased by 22% and 19% respectively in 2025. The EU-wide return rate also rose to over 30%. The report further takes stock of progress in implementing the Pact, which has been fully applicable since June 2026. While the new Eurodac system is operational in all Member States and new screening and border procedures are being implemented, further efforts are needed, particularly regarding Member States’ responsibility obligations.
   
• Commission decision determining migratory situations: Greece, Cyprus, Italy and Spain are identified as being under migratory pressure and will be eligible to access the Solidarity Pool. Belgium, Czechia, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, France, Croatia, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovenia and Finland are considered at risk of migratory pressure. These Member States will have priority access to the Permanent EU Migration Support Toolbox, and their situations may be reassessed on an expedited basis. Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Croatia, Austria and Poland are also identified as facing a significant migratory situation due to the cumulative effects of migration over the past five years. They may request a full or partial deduction from their contributions to the Solidarity Pool.
   
• Commission proposal for the 2027 Annual Solidarity Pool: The Commission has proposed that the Council establish a Solidarity Pool to address the needs of Member States under migratory pressure. Member States will be able to contribute through relocations, financial support, alternative measures or a combination of these forms of solidarity. The Council will decide on the size of the pool and the contributions required from each Member State. Once adopted, the contributions will be public and legally binding.

For further information, please consult the European Annual Asylum and Migration Report 2026 and the accompanying annex to the Commission decision determining the migratory situations of EU Member States.