A key committee in the European Parliament has approved a mandate for stricter migrant return rules, marking a major step toward tightening immigration policies across the European Union.
The decision was taken by the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE), which voted to support a new regulation designed to accelerate the deportation of migrants who do not have the legal right to remain in EU countries.
The proposed reform would introduce several major changes to the EU’s migration framework. One of the most controversial elements is the creation of so-called “return hubs” outside EU borders, where rejected asylum seekers could be sent while awaiting deportation to their home countries.
Supporters say the measure will make deportation procedures more efficient and help address a major weakness in the current system. According to EU data, only about 20 percent of migrants ordered to leave the bloc are actually returned.
The reform also includes tougher penalties for migrants who refuse to comply with deportation orders. These measures could include longer detention periods and entry bans preventing individuals from returning to EU territory.
The proposal builds on the broader EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, which is expected to begin implementation in June.
Centre-right lawmakers welcomed the committee’s decision. François‑Xavier Bellamy described the vote as a historic step that will give EU countries stronger tools to control migration and enforce deportation decisions.
Similarly, Tomas Tobé stressed that the reform is needed to ensure EU migration rules are effectively enforced.
Right-wing political groups, including the European Conservatives and Reformists and Patriots for Europe, celebrated the vote, saying it reflects a growing political shift toward stricter migration policies in Europe.
However, the proposal has sparked strong criticism from human rights groups and left-leaning lawmakers. Organizations such as Amnesty International warned that deportation centers outside EU borders could lead to serious human rights risks.
Some critics also argue that the rules could allow migrants to be sent to countries they have never visited before, raising concerns about legal protections and oversight.
The legislation is expected to move to a full vote in the European Parliament soon. If approved, negotiations between EU lawmakers and member states will begin to finalize the regulation before it can be implemented across the bloc.