Welcome to the June 2026 Edition of the MPG Newsletter!
This month brought significant developments in the EU’s migration policy. MPG’s research already showed how the new Return Regulation risks prolonging detenion and curbing human rights safeguards. With the regulation now voted in by the European Parliament (EP), we published a detailed reflection paper based on the evidence form our Migrant Return Policy Index (MIREX). The new EU Pact on Migration and Asylum also entered into force, and MPG experts added to the ongoing debate by providing analysis for international media.
In this context, we also recognised World Refugee Day as a chance to envision how governments can do better, under international and EU law alike - see our recommendations for durable safety below.
At the EP, we also presented concrete policy steps based on our Political Participation Policy Index (PPPI) that can easily bridge the stubborn gap in migrant women’s political participation. We also joined the Renewal of the Permanent Anti-Racism Civil Society Forum and presented the measures needed for coherent EU policies against racism. Finally, we called for accessible and equitable legal pathways to labour migration at the Wilfried Martens Ccentre for European Studies.
MPG’s work has always been stronger thanks to our partnerships. This month, we share some of our networks' updates: the Starting New newsletter and the Action Education survey, which we invite you to complete.
Overall, our data shows that the EU is not yet prepared for the proper, safe implementation of the new migration and return regimes ushered in this month. This is precisely why we continue to offer our support to decision makers across the EU and beyond to help them embed evidence and meaningful participation into policies.
MPG evidence clearly shows that the EU is building a faster return system, but not a fairer one. Our Migrant Return Policy Index (MIREX)reveals that the gaps the regulation deepens are already among the weakest points in Europe’s return system. The regulation prioritises enforcement over human rights compliance. It narrows the space for voluntary returns, extends detention periods to up to 30 months, allows the detention of children, opens the door to return hubs and offers no solution for regularisation.
Our data show that the same policies that strengthen migrants’ overall political participation also raise trust, efficacy and engagement among migrant women in particular. Yet, most EU strategies still do not include such tools. At the EP, during an event hosted by MEP Anna Strolenberg (Greens/EFA) and organised by our friends at the New Women Connectors, MPG presented the concrete policy steps that can easily bridge gap for migrant women. The research is based on our Political Participation Policy Index (PPPI), and provides an example how gender can be embedded into data and policy from the get-go.
On World Refugee Day, we joined others to celebrate the amazing strength and contributions of all those who persevere despite the immense hardship of displacement. But we also saw this day as an opportunity to reflect on the policies that shape refugees’ lives – and our own, and to envision how governments can do better, under international and EU law alike. In practice, this means working towards and expanding durable solution schemes, and recognising refugees for the partners and contributors they truly are.
Our MIREX data show how return policies across Europe remain far from aligned with human rights standards, at a time when return has become a central political priority. MIREX provides a comparative, evidence-based assessment of return policies across 11 countries.
Our new dashboard allows you to explore and interact with our data - give it a try! In addition, five new videos featuring our experts break down the key findings for those who prefer to get the gist of complex data on the go.
Around Europe is the newsletter of the Starting New - Newcomers Entrepreneurship Coalition, of which MPG is a founding member. Sign up for the newsletter if you are curious about how different EU countries support newcomer entrepreneurs - or fail to. The updates are created to bring value to policymakers, practitioners, researchers, and entrepreneurs alike.
The Urban Agenda Partnership on Inclusion of Migrants and Refugees' Action Group is working to support the integration of newly arrived children, as well as racialised children aged 11 to 18. As part of its work, the group is looking for feedback from local, regional, and national stakeholders, as well as civil society and other experts.
Contribute to the survey and share examples of impactful projects, programmes or initiatives to help build a stronger evidence base for inclusive education - submissionsclose on 30 July.
With the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum entering into force on 12 June, MPG experts gave exclusive interviews to international media outlets and contributed to the ongoing debate on the issue. See our latest interviews and other examples of MPG's work featured in the media.
The Migrant Integration Policy Index (MIPEX) is a unique tool measuring integration policies in 56 countries across 8 policy areas. It provides up-to-date, comprehensive research data and analysis on which to base policies, proposals for change and projects. See the latest articles and studies relying on MIPEX data.
