The UK is set to win support from European partners this week for reforms aimed at strengthening border security and speeding up the removal of foreign criminals and illegal migrants.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is in Chisinau, Moldova, where Council of Europe foreign ministers are expected to agree on a new interpretation of key parts of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), particularly Articles 3 and 8.
The proposed changes are designed to give countries greater flexibility to deport serious offenders and prevent people from exploiting human rights protections to avoid removal or extradition. UK ministers argue that courts should strike a better balance between individual family rights and the wider public interest, including border security and public safety.
The agreement follows months of diplomatic lobbying by the UK and other European governments seeking a tougher but coordinated approach to illegal migration. Ministers say the move shows that reform can be achieved through international cooperation while maintaining support for the ECHR and the protections it provides.
The declaration is also expected to support the UK government’s broader efforts to tighten immigration rules and reduce abuse of the asylum and deportation system.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, Cooper said European countries must be able to take “strong action” against illegal migration while still respecting international law and democratic values.
She stressed that the ECHR has played a vital role in protecting rights and democracy across Europe for decades, but said its interpretation must evolve to reflect modern security and migration pressures.
Attorney General Richard Hermer said the convention has always adapted to new challenges and argued that modernising its application is necessary to protect borders while preserving human rights protections for the future.
Alongside migration discussions, more than 35 countries are also expected to reaffirm support for a Special Tribunal on the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, aimed at prosecuting those responsible for Russia’s invasion, including senior figures linked to the Kremlin.
The Council of Europe is also expanding work to counter foreign disinformation and interference campaigns. The UK government says tackling online manipulation and hybrid threats will remain a key security priority.
Earlier this week, Britain announced sanctions against more than 50 individuals and organisations accused of spreading pro-Kremlin disinformation intended to destabilise Ukraine and interfere in European democratic processes.
