The MARRI Permanent Working Group on Migration Statistics convened on 12 December 2025 to review ongoing developments in regional migration data exchange and to discuss priorities for the coming period. The meeting was chaired by MARRI Regional Centre Director Angela Boranieva and coordinated by Migration Data and Policy Analyst Aleksandar Kostadinov.
The session opened with welcoming remarks from Director Boranieva, who highlighted the importance of strengthening shared methodological standards and ensuring a consistent flow of migration-related data among the MARRI Participants. Delegations then adopted the agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting.
Kostadinov presented an overview of the activities implemented since the last meeting and reported on the status of the statistics collected under the Working Group’s mandate. His presentation included comparative results in the domain of Enforcement of Immigration Legislation, offering insights into regional trends and challenges in this area. He also introduced the updated tables and timelines for the exchange of migration statistics for 2025, outlining the next steps toward further harmonisation.
Participants engaged in a constructive exchange during the Q&A sessions, reflecting their shared commitment to advancing regional cooperation in migration statistics. Each delegation also provided a brief update on the current state of play regarding data exchange, with a particular focus on Enforcement of Immigration Legislation.
In her closing remarks, Director Boranieva commended the Working Group for its continuous dedication to improving the quality, comparability, and availability of migration statistics. She emphasised that robust and harmonised data remain essential for evidence-based policymaking and for strengthening practical cooperation within the region.
The MARRI Regional Centre extends its appreciation to all delegations for their active participation and sustained engagement. The outcomes of this meeting will contribute to shaping the Working Group’s priorities and strengthening the overall framework for regional migration statistics in the year ahead.