Evian : Leaders of the G7 nations have reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying international efforts against migrant smuggling and human trafficking networks, pledging stronger cooperation to dismantle organised criminal groups that profit from illegal migration and related cross-border crimes.
The commitment was outlined in a declaration adopted during the 52nd G7 Summit in Evian, France. The declaration builds on commitments made at previous summits in Apulia, Italy, in 2024 and Kananaskis, Canada, in 2025. Partner nations Kenya and South Korea also endorsed the statement.
In the declaration, G7 leaders described migrant smuggling and human trafficking as serious transnational crimes that undermine the sovereign right of nations to manage and secure their borders while placing vulnerable individuals at significant risk of exploitation, abuse and loss of life.
“We, the Leaders of the G7, reaffirm our enduring efforts to prevent and counter the smuggling of migrants,” the declaration stated.
The leaders stressed the need to combat organised illegal migration while continuing to protect migrants, refugees and forcibly displaced persons who are often vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation. To advance these efforts, relevant ministers have been tasked with strengthening the implementation of the G7 Action Plan to Prevent and Counter the Smuggling of Migrants.
The declaration also highlighted ongoing efforts to impose targeted sanctions and restrictive measures against individuals and entities involved in migrant smuggling operations. Particular concern was expressed over the increasing use of online platforms by criminal organisations to facilitate and promote illegal migration activities.
Recalling commitments made under Canada’s G7 presidency, the leaders pledged closer cooperation with digital platforms and other stakeholders to identify, prevent and remove content used to organise and advertise migrant smuggling operations.
Recognising the importance of addressing migration challenges at their source, the G7 leaders called for deeper engagement with countries of origin and transit. They emphasised the need to dismantle trafficking and smuggling networks before migrants begin their journeys toward destination countries.
The declaration further underscored the importance of promoting stability, economic opportunity and sustainable development in regions affected by irregular migration. According to the leaders, such measures can help individuals build secure and prosperous lives in their home countries while preserving their rights and dignity.
The G7 also reiterated that states have an obligation to accept the return of their own nationals and called for stronger mechanisms to facilitate the timely, safe, lawful and dignified return of individuals who do not have legal permission to remain in another country.
While respecting national sovereignty and domestic legal frameworks, the leaders acknowledged that some G7 members are exploring lawful arrangements with third countries to strengthen migration management and address challenges arising from irregular migration.
The migration declaration forms part of a broader agenda adopted at the summit, where leaders also discussed global security concerns, geopolitical conflicts, organised crime, drug trafficking, energy resilience and international economic cooperation.