Brussels, Belgium — The European Union is preparing to approve a significant tightening of its migration policy on Monday, which includes a proposal to establish “return centers” outside EU territory.
EU interior ministers, gathered in Brussels, are expected to vote on the new measures, which introduce harsher penalties and prolonged detention for migrants who refuse to leave Europe. Under the proposed rules, migrants may be returned not only to their home countries but also to any third country deemed “safe” by the EU.
The initiative—originally pushed forward by Denmark—has gained momentum among several member states. However, the plan has sparked debate within the bloc. France has raised concerns about the legal validity and overall effectiveness of the policy, while Spain has stated that it has not yet confirmed whether the return centers can operate efficiently.
In addition, the EU aims to ease pressure on frontline countries facing large influxes of migrants by implementing a new “solidarity mechanism.” Under this system, member states must either accept a quota of 30,000 asylum seekers or contribute €20,000 per person as financial support.
Despite the push toward stricter controls, many countries remain reluctant to take in additional asylum seekers. With migration flows increasing, the EU faces growing pressure to finalize an agreement before the end of the year.
