Brussels, 10 December 2025 – The Minister of Internal Affairs, Daniella Misail-Nichitin, represented Moldova at the second International Conference of the Global Alliance to Counter Migrant Smuggling, convened by the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner.
The event brought together ministers of internal affairs, senior European officials, specialized agencies, and international organizations to strengthen collective action against migrant smuggling – a transnational challenge closely linked to financial crime, organized networks, and hybrid threats.
In her address, Minister Misail-Nichitin highlighted Moldova’s efforts to safeguard democratic processes, reinforce border security, and dismantle migrant smuggling networks. Her key message underscored that hybrid threats and migrant smuggling are increasingly used as tools of strategic influence against vulnerable states, making enhanced European cooperation essential.
The Minister also emphasized Moldova’s strong commitment to European values and its strategic partnership with the EU. She noted that Moldova remains a model of good practice in countering external interference and protecting democratic processes from illegal financing, disinformation, and hybrid operations. At the same time, Moldova is modernizing border management and strengthening financial investigations, reducing illegal crossings and disrupting criminal networks. The country also supports the objectives of the Global Alliance and the implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, contributing to a safer and more predictable European space.
“Moldova sees this Alliance as more than a framework for cooperation – it is a security community that protects people, borders, and democracies. Migrant smuggling is a transnational crime, but also a strategic threat. We respond through coordinated action and strong European partnerships. Moldova remains committed to a safer and more resilient Europe”, stated the Minister.
Moldova is an active contributor to all EMPACT priorities (the European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats), works in close cooperation with European agencies, and is implementing a broad set of reforms in border management, document security, and the fight against cross-border crime.
European context
The Conference takes place within the framework of the Global Alliance launched in 2023 to combat migrant smuggling networks, particularly those operating online, exploiting digital platforms, and fuelling dangerous routes that lead to loss of life. The event coincides with International Human Rights Day, underscoring that the protection of migrants’ lives and dignity remains at the heart of European policies.
Participants are discussing progress and key decisions across the Alliance’s three pillars:
• preventing irregular migration and strengthening state resilience
• reinforcing law enforcement and judicial cooperation
• promoting legal and safe migration pathways.
At the end of the Conference, the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and Commissioner Magnus Brunner present partners with a Joint Declaration on strengthening European and international action against smugglers, including measures for financial tracking of networks and sanctions.