The EU Parliament Just Passed A New Migration Law: Here’s What This Means

The European Parliament has approved a controversial new migration measure that is being described by some commentators as one of the toughest reforms to the EU's deportation system.

The legislation would make it easier for EU member states to deport migrants who do not have legal permission to remain in the bloc.

At the heart of the proposal is the creation of so-called "return hubs" in countries outside the European Union. Under the new rules, irregular migrants could be transferred to these facilities even if they have no previous connection to the host country.

Under the current system, migrants can generally only be returned to their country of origin or to a country where they have an established link. The new legislation would significantly expand that power, allowing transfers to designated return hubs in third countries. The rules would also apply to families with children, although unaccompanied minors would be exempt.

These return hubs are not necessarily intended to serve as temporary transit centres before migrants are sent back to their home countries. In some cases, individuals could remain there for an indefinite period.

The legislation also grants national authorities broader enforcement powers, including the ability to search a migrant's place of residence or other relevant premises during the return process.

In addition, the maximum period of detention would increase from six months to as long as two years in certain circumstances, while stricter re-entry bans would be imposed on individuals who attempt to return to the EU after being deported.

The proposals will now move forward as part of the EU legislative process, where they must also be agreed upon with the Council of the European Union before becoming law.

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