The European Union has agreed on one of the toughest packages of migration measures in recent decades. The new law provides for the establishment of deportation centers for migrants outside the EU, expands the authorities' powers to search for illegal immigrants, and tightens the rules for returning foreigners who have no right to stay in the member states.
The European Union and the European Parliament have reached an agreement on new migration legislation aimed at expediting the return process for migrants who do not have legal grounds to remain in the EU.
European officials describe the so-called "Return Directive" as an important tool in the fight against illegal migration. According to official data, only about 29% of migrants who have received a departure order leave EU countries today.
EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Magnus Brunner stated that the new rules should enhance control over migration flows and make the system more efficient.
One of the key innovations will be the possibility of creating special return centers outside the European Union. To this end, EU member states will be able to enter into relevant agreements with third countries.
Unlike current regulations, migrants can be directed not only to their country of origin or a state with which they have a confirmed connection. An exception is made only for unaccompanied minors. Families with children may fall under the new rules.
Several countries are already considering the possibility of cooperation with potential partner states. Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Denmark, and Greece have previously supported the implementation of such mechanisms, while Italy is already using a similar model of interaction with Albania.
The law also expands the powers of national authorities. In particular, it provides for the possibility of conducting checks and searches in the residences of illegal migrants. This provision has drawn particularly sharp criticism from human rights organizations.
Furthermore, the document stipulates an increase in the maximum detention period for migrants awaiting deportation from six months to two years. In certain cases, this period may be extended.
The bans on re-entry are also being significantly tightened. While the standard ban previously lasted five years, it can now reach ten years, and in some cases, be indefinite.
Another important change concerns the appeals process. According to the new rules, filing an appeal will no longer automatically suspend the execution of the deportation order. Courts will be able to make decisions on temporary postponements on a case-by-case basis.
The new law has elicited mixed reactions. Representatives of human rights organizations and some members of the European Parliament believe that the document may lead to violations of migrants' rights and an increase in the practice of prolonged detention.
Supporters of the reform, on the other hand, are convinced that without tightening migration policy, the EU will not be able to effectively control its external borders and combat illegal migration.
If the law is finally approved by EU countries and the European Parliament, Europe will have a fundamentally new system for deportation and control over illegal migration. For some, this is a step towards enhancing security and managing migration processes, while for others, it raises serious concerns about the respect for human rights and humanitarian standards.
Leave a comment