The European Commission is set to propose stricter enforcement of deportation policies for individuals with rejected asylum claims. Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner stated that returnees must cooperate with authorities or face “harsh consequences.”
A legislative proposal to amend the EU Return Directive is scheduled for review on March 11. In 2023, over 480,000 individuals were ordered to leave the EU, but only one in five actually departed. The highest number of deportation orders were issued to nationals from Morocco, Algeria, and Afghanistan, while about 92,000 individuals were sent to third countries such as Georgia, Albania, and Turkey.
Brunner emphasized the need for stricter rules for asylum seekers who pose security threats, including potential detention while their deportation is arranged. Additionally, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is considering establishing “return hubs” in third countries to house irregular migrants.
The proposal has sparked criticism from migrant advocacy groups, who warn it could hinder access to humanitarian and work permits. They urge the EU to focus on safer migration pathways and fair regularization measures.
