The EU tightens asylum rules and paves the way for returns to third countries

The European Parliament has approved changes to the European Union's asylum system that will allow for faster rejection of asylum applications and the transfer of applicants to countries with which they have no or only minimal ties. This is another step towards tightening the Union's migration policy, reflecting growing anti-immigration sentiment in Europe and the rise of the far right.

The new rules introduce a list of so-called safe countries to which unsuccessful applicants can be returned, including states such as Egypt and Tunisia, whose respect for human rights is questionable.

Critics warn that the measures could lead to violations of international law and weaken the protection of refugees enshrined in the 1951 Geneva Convention.

The changes are part of the Migration Pact approved in 2023, which is set to come into full effect in 2026. Humanitarian organizations warn that the EU is abandoning its traditional role as a protector of asylum rights.

(reuters, mja)