EU Parliament Backs Migrant Return Centers Outside Bloc

The European Parliament has approved a revision of migration policy aimed at increasing deportations of unsuccessful asylum seekers and allowing member states to establish detention centers outside the European Union. The proposal still requires formal approval by all 27 EU member states.

The measure represents a further tightening of the EU's migration policy following the migration crisis of 2015 and 2016. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the new rules are intended to streamline migrant returns through faster and more effective procedures.

Member states have long highlighted difficulties with the return of rejected asylum seekers and individuals who have overstayed their visas.

Critics argue, however, that the EU is increasingly focused on deterrence and deportations rather than addressing the root causes of migration, including conflict, poverty and political repression. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk warned that the new rules could lead to increased detention of migrants, the creation of return centers abroad and a weakening of protection against expulsion.

The European Commission has also invited Taliban representatives to Brussels for talks on the return of Afghan migrants without the right to reside in the EU. Both the Commission and the Swedish government emphasized that these are technical talks and do not imply recognition of the Taliban government.

(Reuters, Max)