Annual training report 2025

As we reflect on 2025, we recognise it as a significant phase in the strengthening of training frameworks for asylum and reception authorities across the European Union. As national systems continued to adapt to the operational and legal requirements stemming from the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) focused on consolidating capacity, promoting consistency and supporting EU Member States through the delivery of high-quality, standards-based training for officials working in the asylum and reception sector.

A defining moment in 2025 was the official inauguration of the EUAA Academy, held in Malta in June, in the presence of representatives from the European Commission, EUAA Management Board members, representatives of national authorities from across the Member States, and international partners. This event marked the launch of Europe’s first accredited training academy dedicated specifically to asylum and reception officials, establishing both a physical and institutional hub for recognised, specialised learning across EU+ countries.

Following its formal accreditation as a recognised qualifications provider, the EUAA Academy has welcomed national officials from across the EU to its dedicated training centre. This represents a tangible step in advancing professional pathways within the sector, offering internationally recognised training that supports the consistent application of asylum and reception legislation and practices.

At the same time, 2025 saw a significant expansion of EUAA training activities, with participation increasing markedly compared with the previous year. The figures demonstrate sustained and strong engagement from Member States, underlining the continued relevance of EUAA training initiatives. This expansion was supported by an evidence-based approach to learning design, strengthened quality assurance mechanisms and closer engagement with national authorities, ensuring that training remained responsive to evolving operational needs. Cooperation with Member States and partners further contributed to the promotion of shared standards across the EU.

In the context of the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum in 2026, the role of the EUAA Academy becomes even more central to the Agency’s mandate. Training and professional development are fundamental to ensuring the consistent and effective application of the Common European Asylum System across the EU. I am confident that the EUAA Academy will continue to serve as a cornerstone of the Agency’s support to Member States, strengthening preparedness, resilience and convergence in the years ahead.

Nina Gregori

EUAA Executive Director

Rachelle Cortis

Head of the Training and Professional Development Centre

2025 has been a key year for the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) Academy. Throughout this year, a record number of asylum and reception officials were trained, reaching a total of 31 751 participations. The Agency has been operating as a further and higher education provider since August 2024 (Licence No 2024-027, issued by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority), following a rigorous application and review process. To date, the EUAA has already received accreditation for around 30 modules and is at an advanced stage in the accreditation process of the European Master’s Degree in Asylum and Reception Management – an initiative that continues to strengthen the convergent application of the Common European Asylum System across EU Member States.

As Member States continue to prepare for the implementation of the Pact Migration and Asylum, which will enter into force as from June 2026, demand for high-quality training has continued to grow. Throughout the year, the EUAA has supported Member States in strengthening staff competencies and fostering a shared understanding of how to implement the EU Pact on Asylum and Migration effectively and coherently. Through the European Asylum Curriculum, the Agency continues to promote convergence, high standards and professional excellence across the European Union. This transition period has confirmed that investing in people is an essential strategic decision to ensure convergent and robust asylum systems. For the Agency, training and professional development are not peripheral activities but strategic enablers of a well-functioning, efficient and sustainable Common European Asylum System.

As we look ahead, 2026 represents a decisive moment. The entry into application of the Pact will reshape training obligations and operational realities across Europe. In response, the EUAA’s work is guided by three strategic pillars.

First, strengthening training methodologies to support Pact implementation.

Training is now firmly recognised as a structural component of asylum and reception systems. Nearly 150 pact-related training sessions were delivered this year, with over 12 100 participations – reflecting both the scale of demand and the trust placed in the EUAA. The Agency’s focus remains on ensuring that the curriculum reflects operational realities, addresses competency gaps and supports a coherent transition across Member States.

Second, advancing the EUAA Academy – a milestone in professionalisation.

The EUAA’s accreditation as a qualifications provider marks a transformative step forward. The Agency will continue to offer accredited learning, laying a strong foundation for structured learning pathways aligned with EU standards. The upcoming launch of the European Master’s Degree in Asylum and Reception Management aims to further strengthen knowledge management across the sector.

Third, enhancing data management, monitoring and evaluation.

Effective training must be evidence based. The Agency is strengthening its analytical capacity to monitor learner progression, anticipate skills gaps, adapt modules proactively and ensure that our programmes deliver measurable impact.

The EUAA’s vision remains clear: (1) to promote convergence in the implementation of the asylum acquis; (2) to support operationally effective, fundamentally rights-compliant systems; (3) to advance evidence-based learning; and (4) to enhance knowledge management across Europe’s asylum sector.

The EUAA Academy is not only expanding the Agency’s training offer but also raising standards, reinforcing quality and consolidating professional excellence across Member States.

2025 has laid the groundwork. 2026 will be the year in which training proves its full strategic value in shaping a coherent, professional, sustainable and efficient European asylum system.