The Netherlands has emerged as a key advocate for expediting the return of irregular migrants within the European Union (EU). Alongside Austria, the Netherlands is leading a coalition of 17 European countries pushing for reforms that would facilitate the swift return of migrants to their home countries. This coalition includes notable EU member states such as Germany, France, and Italy, as well as three Schengen Associated Countries (SACs)—Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. The group has presented a “non-paper” to the EU, which outlines the need for a new legislative framework to replace the existing Returns Directive, emphasizing the responsibility of migrants who lack the right to remain in the EU.
The proposal calls for a significant shift in the current return process, stressing the need for clear obligations on the part of the migrants facing return decisions. A diplomat involved in the discussions indicated that the aim is to establish a stricter return system that would limit the extensive interpretations by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) regarding return policies. As discussions continue, the Justice and Home Affairs Council is set to meet on October 10 in Luxembourg, with expectations of further discussions on the returns issue.
In a controversial move, the Netherlands’ Minister of Asylum and Migration, Marjolein Faber, has suggested the installation of warning signs in asylum centers, stating, “We are working on your return here.” Although Faber claimed to have seen such signs during a visit to Denmark, officials have refuted the existence of these signs. Criticism has arisen within the government coalition, particularly from Caroline van der Plas, leader of the Farmer-Citizen Movement (BBB), who labeled the initiative as “bullying refugees.”
Additionally, Minister Faber aims to reduce the duration of residency permits for refugees from five years to two. Citing Denmark as an inspiration for a more basic approach to refugee status, she argued that this change would align the Netherlands with a more streamlined asylum process. This shift is part of a broader agenda that seeks to eliminate permanent residency permits for refugees altogether.
Amid these developments, a political agreement has been reached concerning the proposed “Distribution Law,” which is designed to ensure equitable distribution of asylum seekers across all municipalities in the Netherlands. This law aims to address the current shortages in reception places and will replace the existing voluntary system. However, the new law has drawn controversy, particularly since the current government had previously committed to its repeal. Critics, including the Dutch Council for Refugees (DCR), have expressed concerns that municipalities may delay offering reception places until the law is enacted, calling for urgent interim solutions to improve conditions for refugees in emergency shelters.
The Netherlands is at the forefront of advocating for stricter EU migrant return policies, while also navigating complex internal dynamics surrounding refugee treatment and reception. As discussions progress, the impact of these proposals on the country’s asylum landscape remains to be seen.