Overview

• Mahmood gathers interior ministers from the Western Balkans and other European allies in London to pursue new cooperation deals, arguing irregular migration requires a joined-up international response.
• The Home Office reports that about 22,000 people were smuggled along Western Balkans routes in 2024.
• National Crime Agency director general Graeme Biggar is due to brief counterparts on efforts to disrupt smuggling supply chains.
• The agenda includes coordination with regional border forces and a dedicated session on tackling violence against women and girls.
• Conservatives criticize the government’s border record, with shadow home secretary Chris Philp urging the UK to leave the ECHR to accelerate removals.