G7 leaders pledge stronger action against migrant smuggling, human trafficking networks

Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations have committed to intensifying efforts against migrant smuggling and human trafficking. Meeting at the 52nd G7 Summit in Evian, France, they vowed to dismantle organized criminal groups that exploit illegal migration and related crimes.

The leaders described these activities as serious transnational crimes that undermine border control and expose vulnerable people to life-threatening risks. Their declaration, supported by Kenya and South Korea, stressed the need to combat illegal migration while ensuring protection for migrants, refugees, and those forcibly displaced.

Ministers are tasked with implementing the G7 Action Plan to Prevent and Counter the Smuggling of Migrants. The group also noted efforts to impose targeted sanctions on individuals and entities involved in smuggling. Particular attention was given to the increasing use of online platforms by criminal organizations, prompting a pledge to enhance cooperation with these platforms to detect and remove content promoting smuggling.

The G7 also highlighted the importance of engaging with countries of origin and transit to disrupt these networks before they reach destination countries. They committed to strengthening cooperation to promote stability and economic opportunities in regions affected by irregular migration, aiming to enable people to live safely in their home countries. The statement also addressed the obligation of states to accept the return of their nationals, calling for stronger mechanisms for timely, safe, lawful, and dignified returns of individuals without legal residency. Some G7 members are exploring new lawful arrangements with third countries to improve migration management.

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We, the Leaders of the G7, reaffirm our enduring efforts to prevent and counter the smuggling of migrants.