EU Migration Reform Aims to Speed Up Deportations

The European Union is close to approving a major overhaul of its asylum policy aimed at significantly increasing the number of rejected asylum seekers removed from the bloc.

Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner described the reform as the missing piece in Europe’s tougher migration policy. According to European Commission data, only around one-fifth of failed asylum applicants currently leave the EU, Politico reported.

The proposed rules would introduce stricter measures for migrants deemed security risks, including longer entry bans, expanded detention powers and penalties for failing to cooperate with authorities.

The reform also includes the creation of so-called return centers outside the EU, where migrants ordered to leave the bloc could be transferred. Germany and the Netherlands want concrete plans in place by the end of next year.

Italy is already developing similar facilities in Albania, although the project has faced legal challenges.

The proposals have triggered strong political and public reactions. Human rights groups warn that the return centers could become opaque detention facilities lacking adequate legal protections.

The European People’s Party secured a common position with support from right-wing parties, drawing criticism from liberal and green factions. Supporters of the reform argue, however, that without effective deportations it will be impossible to restore public confidence in the EU’s migration system.

(mja)