EU member states and the European Parliament have reached a political agreement on a new Returns Regulation following months of negotiations. The agreement forms a key part of the EU’s new Pact on Migration and Asylum and marks a further tightening of the bloc’s migration policy, particularly regarding the deportation of migrants who do not have the right to asylum or residence in the EU, according to a report by Kathimerini.
A central feature of the new framework is the possibility of establishing “return hubs” in third countries outside the European Union. Member states will be able to strike agreements with non-EU countries to operate such facilities, which could serve either as transit centers before migrants are returned to their country of origin (or another third country) or as a final destination. Unaccompanied minors are explicitly exempt from the scheme.
The regulation also introduces stricter cooperation requirements for individuals who receive a return order. In cases of non-compliance, member states may restrict benefits or incentives linked to voluntary return programs, while some national legal systems could also impose criminal penalties.
The agreement still requires formal approval by both the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament. It is expected to come into effect roughly one year after its official entry into force.
Particular emphasis is placed on individuals deemed a threat to public security. In such cases, stricter entry bans may be imposed, exceeding ten years or even becoming indefinite. According to information from the negotiations, the maximum period of administrative detention prior to return will be extended to up to 24 months, with the possibility of an additional six-month extension.
Supporters of the regulation argue that the reform is necessary, noting that only around 25% of return decisions in the EU are currently enforced. In contrast, Socialist lawmakers and human rights organizations have raised concerns about the legality of offshore return centers and the potential impact on fundamental rights.
The agreement is of particular importance to Greece, which is among the countries actively advocating for the creation of return centers outside the EU. The text must now receive formal approval from the Council and the European Parliament, while many of its key provisions are expected to take effect approximately one year later.
Sources: Kathimerini [1], [2]
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