The European Parliament has approved a significant overhaul of the European Union's migrant return system, a move aimed at accelerating the deportation of individuals found to be staying illegally within the bloc. The legislation, known as the Return Regulation, passed with a vote of 418 in favor, 218 against, and 30 abstentions.
The vote's aftermath was marked by a vociferous display as right-wing lawmakers began chanting "send them back." This was met with counter-chants of "shame on you" from lawmakers on the left, highlighting the deep divisions within the EU over migration policy.
The new rules, which still require formal approval from the Council of the European Union and publication in the Official Journal to take effect, introduce measures designed to streamline the process of removing third-country nationals. These include provisions for detaining some migrants for up to 24 months, with a potential six-month extension, and establishing frameworks for "return hubs" located outside the EU in cooperation with willing third countries.
Supporters of the regulation argue that the changes are essential due to persistent challenges in enforcing existing deportation orders. The European Conservatives and Reformists Group cited European Commission data indicating that only about 20% of migrants who receive a return decision are actually returned.
The vote follows a period of increased discussion and apparent movement within the EU towards stricter border and asylum regulations, driven by growing concerns about irregular immigration across the continent. Proposed measures include enhanced screening, identity and security checks, and the utilization of biometric data.
Political reactions have been sharply divided. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the vote as a "great success" and a "historic measure." Other conservative leaders in France and Austria also lauded the outcome, interpreting it as a shift in EU policy influenced by right-wing pressure.
Conversely, critics have voiced strong opposition, accusing proponents of dehumanizing migrants and undermining fundamental protections. Javi López, Vice President of the European Parliament, reportedly called the plenary session "disgraceful," while Ilaria Salis, an Italian Green and Left Alliance Member of the European Parliament, characterized the celebratory chants as "horrifying."
Human rights organizations have also expressed concerns. The United Nations human rights chief, Volker Türk, has warned that the new rules could lead to expanded detention, the creation of offshore return hubs, and a weakening of safeguards against forced returns, according to reports from Reuters.