Marking its 10th anniversary, the Khartoum Process reflects on its achievements and evolving priorities. Since its establishment in 2014, the initiative continues to address migration challenges along the Horn of Africa–Europe route through partnership and cooperation.
Officially known as the EU-Horn of Africa Migration Routes Initiative, the Khartoum Process was inaugurated in November 2014 at the Ministerial Conference in Rome, Italy. The Rome Declaration, signed during the conference, laid the foundation for this initiative, underscoring the principles of balanced partnership, common understanding and shared responsibility to address migration challenges effectively.
Initially, the Khartoum Process focused on combating human trafficking and smuggling of migrants along migration routes between the Horn of Africa and Europe. However, as migration dynamics evolved, so did the scope of the Khartoum Process. Over time, the focus of the Process broadened to align with the five priority areas of the Joint Valletta Action Plan (JVAP):
- Development benefits of migration and addressing root causes of irregular migration and forced displacement
- Legal migration and mobility
- Protection and asylum
- Prevention of and fight against irregular migration, migrant smuggling and trafficking in human beings
- Return, readmission and reintegration
This expanded scope demonstrates the Process’ adaptability to changing migration realities and its commitment to tackling interconnected challenges comprehensively.
Advancing migration governance through dialogue and innovation
The Khartoum Process serves as a vital platform for political cooperation among countries along key migration routes. Its key strengths include fostering both formal and informal dialogues, promoting context-sensitive and sustainable solutions and applying a whole-of-government approach by addressing migration challenges at various stages — source, transit, and destination. Member countries and joint actions have driven significant progress over the past decade through collaborative efforts.
The Process has served as a laboratory for developing new ideas, approaches, and best practices in migration governance. Regular workshops and thematic meetings equip member states with tools to address challenges such as climate displacement, border management, countering human trafficking and facilitating safe and legal migration pathways.
The formal and informal nature of the dialogue has provided a unique space for trust-building, networking, and developing partnerships among members. Rotating leadership underscores the sustained commitment of member states to the initiative. As the Khartoum Process enters its second decade, the focus remains on addressing emerging challenges. By integrating climate-related considerations into its activities, the Process aims to remain forward-looking and relevant.
Shaping future priorities and strengthening cooperation
Looking ahead, the Ministerial Conference in April 2025 will be a pivotal moment, expected to shape the initiative’s future priorities and operational focus. This conference will reaffirm member states’ commitment to the Process and chart a course for the next decade of cooperation.
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