Informal Justice and Home Affairs Council discusses Justice priorities in an evolving European context

The second day of the Informal Justice and Home Affairs (JHA) Council, under the Cyprus Presidency, brought to the forefront critical Justice priorities enhancing Europe’s dialogue on contemporary challenges. These priorities ranged from tackling financial crime and recovering illicit assets, to protecting cultural heritage across borders and promoting smarter, more humane alternatives to detention for young offenders.

Ministers of Justice gathered in Lefkosia for the Justice session of the Informal Justice and Home Affairs Council, chaired by the Minister of Justice and Public Order, Mr Costas Fytiris. The discussions focused on three closely linked priorities at the heart of Europe’s justice agenda, which have been shaped by evolving societal, economic and security challenges.

Opening the exchanges, ministers addressed the need to strengthen asset recovery in an increasingly complex and rapidly evolving financial landscape. They reaffirmed that “following the money” remains one of the most effective tools to combat organised crime, corruption and financial offences.

Particular emphasis was placed on ensuring that investigative and prosecutorial authorities have timely access to financial information, that effective legal tools are available, and that cross-border cooperation is further enhanced. The discussion also highlighted the growing importance of structured public-private partnerships, while underlining the need for robust safeguards to protect fundamental rights and personal data.

The second session addressed the cross-border restitution of cultural objects that have been removed unlawfully, a challenge affecting many member states and Europe’s shared cultural heritage. Ministers examined the shortcomings of the current legal framework and the risks arising from divergent national rules, which could be exploited by illicit trafficking networks.

The discussion considered whether further EU-level action, including in the field of private international law, could enhance legal certainty, prevent forum shopping and ensure fair and predictable outcomes in cross-border disputes, while strengthening the protection of cultural heritage.

The meeting concluded with a focused discussion on alternatives to the detention of drug-using minors and young adult offenders. Ministers reiterated that deprivation of liberty should remain a measure of last resort only, and highlighted the clear benefits of diversionary, treatment-oriented and rehabilitative approaches. These measures were recognised as being essential in supporting social reintegration, reducing reoffending and contributing to more effective and sustainable justice systems.

Reflecting on the discussions, Mr Fytiris underlined the strong engagement of all participants, noting that “the lively and substantive exchange of views clearly demonstrated the importance that all member states attach to the contemporary challenges facing Justice. Asset recovery, the protection of cultural heritage and alternatives to detention require a shared approach, strengthened cooperation and coordinated action at the European level”.

Overall, the exchanges reaffirmed the commitment of the EU’s member states and institutions to deepening cooperation, reinforcing mutual trust and pursuing balanced justice policies that are firmly anchored in the EU’s fundamental values and objectives.

Photos and video

See photos from the Informal Council on the Cyprus Presidency's Flickr account.