Chaired by Cypriot Justice Minister Costas Fytiris, EU ministers are gathering in Luxembourg to debate a critical framework for recognizing family rights across borders and map out the Union's future "Justice" program.

The "Justice" programme, the recognition of parenthood in cross-border cases, as well as the progress of work on the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and the fight against impunity for crimes committed in Ukraine, are among the issues that will be discussed at the Justice and Home Affairs Council (Justice), which meets on Friday, in Luxembourg. The Council will be chaired by the Minister of Justice, Costas Fytiris, who said ahead of the meeting that this is the second and final day of work, noting that a series of important issues are included on the agenda. He pointed out that the cross-border family relations dossier and the Justice programme concerning the budget for the 2028–2034 period stand out in particular. At the same time, he expressed hope for a constructive discussion with his counterparts.

According to the Council agenda, Ministers will hold an orientation debate on the proposed Regulation on the recognition of parenthood. The proposal aims to ensure continuity of parenthood in cross-border situations and to protect children’s rights, regardless of the manner of their conception or birth and regardless of their family form.

At the same time, the Council is expected to approve a partial mandate for the new “Justice” programme for the 2028–2034 period. The programme is expected to support judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters, judicial training, as well as actions promoting the independence and impartiality of the judiciary.

The agenda also includes an update from the Presidency of the Council and the European Chief Prosecutor, Laura Kövesi, on the current state of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office. In addition, the Presidency will brief Ministers on progress in work related to combating impunity for crimes committed in Ukraine.

Source: CNA(ΚΥΠΕ)