EU's Stricter Deportation Measures on the Horizon

As Europe prepares for an upcoming summit on migration, there is a growing consensus among EU nations for stricter deportation measures. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has been vocal about the need to revise the EU's return policy, emphasizing that current regulations are ineffective. Austria's Interior Minister, Gerhard Karner, echoed this sentiment, advocating for more uncompromising deportation processes and simplified detention procedures.

Seventeen Schengen countries, including Germany, have urged the EU Commission to overhaul the 2008 return directive. The upcoming summit in Brussels will focus on migration, reflecting recent electoral gains by far-right parties advocating stricter measures. However, a unified approach remains elusive.

Faeser has expressed skepticism about proposals for return centers in third countries, a plan supported by Hungary and Italy. Italy has already established such centers in Albania to process asylum claims. Meanwhile, France's new Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, suggests exploring innovative solutions without dismissing options prematurely.

The EU's return rates remain low, with only one in five instructed to leave the EU actually doing so. Yet, outgoing EU Commissioner Ylva Johansson noted a positive trend, with fewer unauthorized entries and increased returns. Part of this success is attributed to the reformed EU asylum system, set to take effect in 2026.

Faeser is pushing for early implementation of parts of this reform, notably at German airports. Those from countries with low asylum acceptance rates could face expedited processing. The debate continues, as countries like the Netherlands and Hungary consider opting out of EU asylum policies, a move requiring unanimous member state approval.