National Preventive Mechanisms for the prevention of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, members of the South-East Europe NPM Network (SEE NPM), met on 27 and 28 May 2026 in Sofia. The meeting focused on the protection of the fundamental rights of detained migrants, alternatives to detention, and forced return to the country of origin.

The meeting was attended by representatives of UNHCR, FRONTEX and the Council of Europe, as well as representatives of national preventive mechanisms and ombuds institutions from Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Greece, Montenegro, Serbia, Slovenia and Croatia. Deputy Ombudsman Saša Rajić also took part in the meeting.

Representatives of the NPMs shared experiences, challenges and problems related to visits to reception centres and the monitoring of accommodation conditions for migrants, as well as mechanisms for preventing inhuman and degrading treatment.

Representatives of the Network adopted a declaration on the detention of migrants, calling for migrant detention to be used only as a measure of last resort and in strict compliance with international human rights standards. The document emphasises the need for effective and humane alternatives to detention, safeguards against arbitrary and prolonged deprivation of liberty, as well as access to legal aid, healthcare, interpretation and effective legal remedies. Participants expressed serious concern regarding prolonged detention in cases where there is no realistic prospect of removal or forced return.

As part of the programme, the representatives visited the Special Home for Temporary Accommodation of Foreigners – Sofia Busmantsi Detention Centre, where they learned about the conditions in the Centre and the practical challenges faced by institutions.

At the end of the meeting, participants confirmed their readiness to continue strengthening regional cooperation and promoting migration management policies based on human rights and the rule of law.