The European Union is opening the door to a new era in migration policy. A proposed regulation that would allow the establishment of deportation centers in non-EU countries includes significant changes ranging from detention periods to entry bans.
The EU is preparing to take one of its most comprehensive steps yet in tackling irregular migration. The new regulation, which is expected to gain approval, aims to accelerate deportation procedures while paving the way for the creation of return centers outside the European Union.
The new rules are intended to ensure the faster removal of individuals who do not have the right to remain in Europe. The proposal also highlights the shift in the EU’s approach amid growing political pressure over migration in recent years.
Deportation Centers to Be Established
The most notable aspect of the new regulation is that migrants could be transferred to return centers established in countries outside the EU.
Under the current system, migrants can generally only be returned to their country of origin or to a country with which they have established connections. Under the new model, this requirement would largely be eliminated.
Swedish politician Charlie Weimers, one of the figures involved in drafting the legislation, described the development by saying:
“The era of deportations has begun.”
While debates continue over Italy’s similar arrangement in Albania, reports indicate that Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Denmark, and Greece are also exploring potential partner countries for such facilities.
Detention Periods to Be Extended
The proposed regulation is not limited to deportation centers. Under the new rules, the maximum detention period for irregular migrants could be increased from six months to two years.
The changes would also allow for longer detention periods for individuals considered security risks, while entry bans are expected to become stricter.
In most cases, entry bans that currently last five years could be extended to ten years, and in some cases, lifetime bans could be imposed.
Growing Human Rights Concerns
The proposal has drawn strong criticism from human rights organizations. More than 250 civil society organizations have reportedly opposed the legislation.
Sarah Chander, Director of the Equinox Initiative for Racial Justice, stated:
“The EU is legitimizing offshore detention facilities, racial profiling, and the detention of children on an unprecedented scale.”
Critics argue that the new system may fail to achieve its intended goal of reducing migration flows, while supporters contend that it will ensure more effective enforcement of deportation decisions.