Dear readers,

The COVID-19 virus is affecting millions of people and their families; first and foremost, our thoughts are with those who are personally impacted. 

Considering the rapidly evolving spread of the Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) over the past weeks, EASO has implemented some important measures to ensure the well-being of its staff and stakeholders as well as to ensure business continuity. 

The measures include the establishment of the EASO COVID-19 Response Team, cancellation of all missions, scheduled meetings, training sessions and other activities being organised by EASO, teleworking arrangements for EASO staff, as well as daily updates to all staff in order to ensure full transparency on developments. 

While the Agency is making every effort to minimise the disruption to its business, several activities may be delayed. With regard to EASO’s operational support to the asylum authorities in Cyprus, Greece, Italy and Malta, in light of the measures being taken by the respective national authorities, together with EASO’s duty-of-care obligations, activities have also been restricted.

EASO is also engaged, together with Member States and the European Commission, in mitigating the impact of the COVID outbreak on national asylum systems. This includes discussions on remote options for interviews for international protection, as well as continuing EASO’s training for national officials through e-learning platforms.

The Executive Director, together with the EASO COVID-19 Response Team, are closely monitoring developments throughout Europe, including following the guidance of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the national authorities where EASO is present, as well as the European Commission.

EASO will take any further actions as necessary in order to minimise disruption to its core business while ensuring the well-being of its staff.
 

Look after yourselves and your families and stay safe!

Nina Gregori
Executive Director