The European Parliament has approved a new law aimed at accelerating the return of irregular migrants, marking a significant shift in Europe’s migration policy as stricter measures gain traction across the region.
The legislation allows EU member states to establish deportation centres outside the European Union, while also introducing tougher rules on detention and re-entry for migrants without legal status.
Quick Reads
- EU approves law to speed up migrant deportations
- Allows deportation centres outside the EU
- Detention period extended up to 2 years
- Entry bans could be long-term or indefinite
- Law passed with 389 votes in favour
Key Highlights of the Law
The newly approved “return regulation” is designed to improve the rate at which migrants without legal permission are sent back. It introduces the concept of “return hubs” — facilities that can be set up in non-EU countries under bilateral agreements.
These centres would allow migrants to be deported to third countries that may not be their country of origin, provided arrangements exist between the EU nation and the host country.
The law also proposes:
- Extending detention for migrants awaiting return to up to 24 months
- Imposing strict or potentially unlimited entry bans
- Revising appeal rules, allowing deportations to proceed based on judicial discretion
Talks with Non-Recognised Entities
A notable provision allows EU authorities to engage with “non-recognised third country entities” to facilitate deportations. This has sparked debate, as it may involve cooperation with regimes not formally recognised by the EU.
“The adopted text gives a green light to the cooperation with the Talibans to enable the forced return of Afghan nationals. It is a total renouncement of the EU values,” Green MEP Melissa Camara told Euronews.
Political Divide Over Migration Policy
The law received 389 votes in favour, with 206 against and 32 abstentions. It was backed by conservative groups, including the European People’s Party, alongside far-right lawmakers.
Supporters argue the policy is necessary to control irregular migration, while critics warn it could undermine human rights protections.
French MEP Francois-Xavier Bellamy stated:
“We will impose a simple principle: who comes to Europe illegally cannot stay.”
However, opposition leaders raised concerns about the broader implications.
“This is no longer about returning people, but sending them virtually to any country in the world, maybe one that they have never seen before,” said MEP Cecilia Strada.
Families Included, Minors Exempt
The proposal allows deportations to include families with children, although unaccompanied minors are excluded.
At the same time, lawmakers removed provisions that could have allowed authorities to conduct wide-ranging searches to locate migrants, a move seen as a safeguard against excessive enforcement actions.
What Happens Next?
The legislation will now move into final negotiations between the European Parliament and EU member states. Since both sides broadly agree on the framework, the process is expected to move forward without major obstacles.
Key Facts
- Migration policy tightening across Europe reflects political shift
- “Return hubs” could be set up outside EU borders
- Entry bans may extend beyond current limits
- Appeals process may no longer automatically halt deportations
Source
Disclaimer
This article is a rewritten and summarized version of publicly available news reports. It is intended for informational purposes only. Policy details may evolve as the legislation undergoes further negotiations and implementation across EU member states.
