EU Plans New Return Hubs for Migrants Amid Reform

The European Union is proposing a reform of its return system, aimed at establishing 'return hubs' outside the bloc for migrants without the right to stay. This initiative follows growing pressure from member states, particularly those with hard-right governments, to facilitate deportations as public opinion on migration shifts. The proposal, which aims to address the current inadequacies of the return system—where less than 20% of those ordered to leave actually do—includes allowing countries to negotiate agreements with third nations to set up these hubs, provided human rights are respected. Additionally, the reform seeks to expand the conditions under which irregular migrants can be detained, targeting those deemed likely to abscond or posing security risks. The EU Commission emphasizes that a credible return policy is essential for an effective migration management system, stating that failure to address this undermines the entire asylum framework. The proposal is set to be unveiled formally, with discussions ongoing about its implications for member states and their handling of irregular migration.