EU’s migrant crisis crackdown to be decided today – ‘Missing piece’ | World | News
Migrants rescued from the Mediterranean (Image: Getty)
Tougher rules designed to dramatically boost the number of failed asylum seekers and illegal migrants removed from the bloc are set to be ratified by the European Union today. The proposed Return Regulation, described by Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner as the “missing piece” of the EU’s migration policy overhaul, aims to tackle chronically low return rates that have undermined public confidence in the system.
Currently, only about 20% of people ordered to leave the EU actually depart, according to European Commission figures, though recent Eurostat data suggest the rate is slightly higher at above 25%. The new rules would replace the 2008 Return Directive with a common European system featuring swifter procedures, mutual recognition of return decisions, and stronger enforcement tools. Mr Brunner told Politico: “People who do not have the right to stay in the European Union must be returned effectively. The new rules will give us more control over who can come to the EU, who can stay, and who must leave. This is what EU citizens expect, and that is what we must deliver.”
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EU commissioner Magnus Brunner (Image: Getty)
Key elements of the agreement expected today include stricter measures for those posing security risks, with mandatory forced returns, longer entry bans and extended detention powers. Detention periods could rise to 24 months, or beyond in security cases with judicial approval. Non-cooperation by returnees would trigger penalties such as reduced allowances or seizure of documents, while incentives for voluntary departure would be strengthened.
Member States would gain powers to search homes, impose reporting requirements and use alternatives to detention to curb absconding. A major innovation is the legal basis for “return hubs” in third countries, allowing failed migrants to be sent outside the EU under bilateral or EU-level agreements that respect human rights and non-refoulement. Germany and the Netherlands aim to have such hubs operational by the end of 2026, while Italy has already established facilities in Albania, despite ongoing legal hurdles.
The Commission’s March 2025 proposal for a Common European System for Returns emphasises mutual recognition of a new European Return Order, systematic readmission requests to third countries, and early security screening. It balances tougher obligations with safeguards for vulnerable people, including minors and families, and upholds fundamental rights.
The push reflects a broader rightward shift in European politics, where tougher migration control has become mainstream. Increasing deportations forms a central part of efforts to secure the EU’s external borders following last year’s adoption of the Migration and Asylum Pact.
Critics, particularly NGOs and left-leaning MEPs, warn of risks. The International Rescue Committee’s executive director, Imogen Sudbery, said return hubs could become “lawless offshore detention centres” with potential for human rights abuses due to insufficient oversight. French Green MEP Mélissa Camara urged the Cypriot Council presidency to avoid any deal involving far-right support in Parliament.
Negotiations have been contentious, with the centre-right EPP securing positions with right-wing groups. Sweden’s Charlie Weimers, negotiator for the European Conservatives and Reformists group, said: “We remain committed to delivering a robust, security-oriented and operational Return Regulation that addresses Europe’s low return rate.”
Outstanding issues include ties with regimes such as the Taliban in Afghanistan, mutual recognition of return orders across member states, and the timeline for implementation. Any deal reached today would still require formal approval by the Council and full Parliament.
Proponents argue the reforms are essential for the Pact’s credibility. Without effective returns, the EU’s asylum system risks losing public trust. The regulation would create consistent rules across 27 countries, ending fragmentation that has allowed abuse.
If approved, the changes would mark a significant tightening of EU migration policy, aiming to ensure that decisions to remove those without a right to remain are actually enforced.
