EU Countries approve major tightening of migration policy

14:00

By: Sahili Aya

EU Countries approve major tightening of migration policy

EU member states endorsed a significant tightening of their migration policy on Monday, giving initial approval to a set of measures aimed at restricting asylum arrivals and accelerating returns. Meeting in Brussels, the Interior ministers of the 27 nations backed three legislative proposals introduced earlier this year by the European Commission.

The new framework would allow several major changes:
The creation of “return hubs” outside EU territory to host migrants whose asylum applications have been rejected.
Harsher penalties for individuals refusing to leave Europe, including extended detention periods.
The transfer of certain asylum seekers to countries considered “safe” by the EU, even if those nations are not their place of origin.

Despite a nearly 20% decrease in irregular arrivals compared to the previous year, political pressure from right-wing and far-right parties has intensified across Europe. European Commissioner Magnus Brunner defended the reforms, stressing the need to reassure citizens that migration flows are under control.

Human rights groups sharply criticized the initiative, warning that the measures undermine legal protections and place vulnerable people at greater risk.

France and Spain expressed reservations, particularly regarding the legality and efficiency of return hubs, which have shown limited success in past trials. Nevertheless, most member states — encouraged by Denmark’s rotating presidency — have pushed for swift progress.

The proposals also drew strong support from conservative and far-right groups in the European Parliament, who aim for a final adoption early next year.

In addition, EU countries reached an agreement on a new solidarity mechanism for distributing asylum seekers. Nations unwilling to accept relocated applicants will be required to contribute €20,000 per person to frontline states such as Greece and Italy. The exact distribution plan remains confidential and will take effect next June.