After ten years of negotiations, the European Parliament has passed the GEAS reform, aimed at overhauling the EU's Migration and Asylum Pact.

The legislative package received a mixed response with 322 votes in favor, 226 against, and 31 abstentions.

The reform introduces a range of new measures including mandatory migrant screening at EU borders, the creation of centers for those unlikely to receive asylum, and the collection of biometric data from children aged 6 and above.

A key feature of the reform is the introduction of a mandatory and permanent solidarity mechanism for redistributing refugees during times of excessive strain on the asylum system.

Despite the planned implementation before the European elections in June and full enactment by early 2026, the legislation has been criticized for potentially compromising EU humanitarian principles and bolstering right-wing populism.

Final approval from the Council of the EU is still pending, with some member states like Poland harboring concerns about the pact's provisions.