Newsroom
By Alexandra Voudouri
The European Union has moved a step closer to creating migrant deportation centers outside its borders, following a controversial vote in the European Parliament that highlights Europe’s increasingly stricter approach to irregular migration.
Lawmakers on Thursday approved new legislation paving the way for so-called “return hubs," facilities in third countries where migrants denied asylum could be sent while awaiting deportation. The proposal passed with 389 votes in favor, 206 against and 32 abstentions.
The regulation, promoted by the European Commission after years of pressure from several member states, aims to accelerate the return of migrants who do not qualify for international protection and to address what governments describe as a growing backlog of failed asylum cases across the bloc.
Longer detention and wider deportation powers
Among the most significant provisions is the extension of maximum detention periods to up to 24 months. The law also allows for long-term, and in some cases indefinite, entry bans into the EU for individuals ordered to leave.
Perhaps most notably, EU countries would gain the ability to deport irregular migrants to third countries that are not their country of origin, provided bilateral agreements are in place. Supporters argue the measure could ease pressure on frontline states struggling with migration flows.
Human rights organizations, however, have already raised concerns, warning that the system could lead to violations of fundamental rights if safeguards are not strictly enforced.
Five-country push led by Greece
The initiative carries particular importance for Greece, which has been coordinating closely with Germany, Denmark, Austria and the Netherlands to advance the idea of external return centers.
Although no host countries have yet been identified, technical discussions are ongoing. A new political meeting between the five countries is expected in June, as negotiations continue between the European Parliament and member states over the final legal text.
Officials expect the talks to proceed smoothly, as major differences between the two sides appear limited.
Families included, appeals rules reconsidered
Both lawmakers and member states support allowing families with children to be included in returns to third countries, with the exception of unaccompanied minors.
The proposal also seeks to change current rules that automatically suspend deportations while appeals are pending. Instead, courts would decide case by case whether an appeal should halt removal procedures.
The European Parliament additionally approved permanent entry bans for individuals deemed security risks.
Political alliances shape vote
The vote exposed shifting political dynamics within the EU. The center-right European People’s Party aligned with far-right groups to secure approval of the legislation, while several socialist lawmakers from Denmark, Malta and Latvia also backed the measure, emphasizing how migration policy continues to redraw traditional political lines across Europe.
A broader shift in Europe’s migration policy
The legislation reflects a broader shift within the EU toward tighter migration controls, as governments face domestic political pressure to manage arrivals more effectively while maintaining asylum protections.
Supporters say the new framework will make return procedures faster and more credible. Critics argue it risks outsourcing responsibility for migrants beyond EU borders.
The coming months, and the choice of potential host countries, are expected to determine whether the plan becomes a cornerstone of Europe’s migration strategy or its next political flashpoint.
