The EU's Pact on Migration and Asylum, finalized after five years, is now in effect, aiming to bolster external borders and member state cooperation. However, human rights groups caution it may create further obstacles for asylum-seekers.

Five years in the making, the EU's Pact on Migration and Asylum comes into effect this Friday. It aims to strengthen the bloc's external borders and incentivise cooperation between member countries on dealing with claims. Human rights groups, though, are warning the pact could add to the difficulties asylum-seekers face while trying to find safe haven in the EU.