EU countries have agreed on their final negotiating positions regarding new migration laws, including changes to asylum rules, a common list of “safe countries of origin,” and a policy for returning illegal migrants. Despite criticism from over 200 organizations, the proposals from the European Commission are likely to become law. The Council will now negotiate with the European Parliament to finalize the legal texts, although the Parliament’s recent drafts suggest they may retain key elements of the proposals.
The agreed plan includes a “solidarity pool” for 2026, allowing EU countries to assist Mediterranean states with 21,000 relocations or financial aid. Under the new asylum rules, countries can deny asylum applications if the applicant could find protection in a designated safe country. Denmark and other member states support processing asylum applications in safe third countries to discourage dangerous journeys to the EU.
Additionally, the Council has established regulations for migrant returns, which introduce obligations for those given return orders. Non-cooperation could lead to imprisonment. The new rules also allow for the creation of “return hubs. ” Critics argue these measures are harsh and could adversely affect migrants’ rights, leading to increased insecurity and legal uncertainty.
With information from Reuters
