The European Parliament has approved a controversial overhaul of migration rules, endorsing plans to establish offshore detention centres and impose stricter penalties on irregular migrants.
In a vote held on Thursday, lawmakers backed the proposed EU Return Regulation by 389 votes to 206, setting the stage for negotiations with EU member states on the final legislation.
Offshore “Return Hubs” Proposed
At the centre of the reform is the creation of so-called “return hubs” detention facilities in non-EU countries where migrants whose asylum applications have been rejected would be transferred.
Supporters argue the move will deter irregular migration and strengthen enforcement of deportation orders.
“If you come to Europe illegally, rest assured that you will not stay here,” said François‑Xavier Bellamy, a leading advocate of the proposal.
Several EU countries, including Germany, Netherlands, Austria, Greece, and Denmark, are already exploring agreements with African nations to host such facilities.
Tougher Penalties for Migrants
The proposed rules would also introduce stricter penalties for migrants who refuse to leave EU territory. These include extended detention periods and longer entry bans for individuals found to be in violation of return orders.
Backers of the legislation, largely from centre-right and far-right political groups, say the measures are necessary to restore credibility to the EU’s migration system.
Strong Criticism from Rights Groups
The vote has triggered sharp criticism from opposition lawmakers and international organisations.
“These appalling laws will push innocent people into hiding for fear of prison and deportation,” warned Italian MEP Cecilia Strada.
Human rights organisations have also raised alarm over the potential consequences of offshore detention. Amnesty International described the reforms as part of a “growing trend towards increasingly harmful, exclusionary and draconian policies.”
Meanwhile, the International Rescue Committee warned that such return hubs could become “legal black holes,” exposing migrants to serious rights violations outside EU jurisdiction.
Next Steps
Negotiations between the European Parliament and EU member states are expected to proceed rapidly, with the final shape of the regulation likely to spark continued debate across the bloc.
The vote underscores deep divisions within Europe over how to manage migration, balancing border control priorities against humanitarian obligations and international law.
