The European Commissioner for Internal Relations and Migration, Magnus Brunner, has labeled the proposed new legislation concerning the deportation of unsuccessful asylum applicants as a “gamechanger”.
He emphasized that this proposal to reform the “returns” directive is centered on taking responsibility and represents “a true European approach”.
“It is ambitious yet balanced in my opinion. The return decisions will lead to actual returns, ultimately enhancing the credibility of our migration policy,” he stated.
Brunner highlighted that the new regulation aims to establish a more coherent and efficient return system with a unified set of rules applicable “wherever you are.”
He referred to this as the essentially “missing piece” of the migration policy pact established last year.
According to him, actions must be taken to preserve “our ability to grant asylum to those in need… and to maintain a form of public trust in an open society”.
“This is why we are putting forth a series of modern procedures to empower member states in returning unsuccessful asylum applicants,” he added.
Brunner noted that without readmission, returns cannot occur, insisting that they are ensuring every return decision is consistently followed by a readmission request.
He clarified that the return hubs being proposed differ significantly from the Rwanda and Italian-Albanian models, with safeguards already in place.
Brunner mentioned they are establishing a legal framework for these return hubs, enabling countries to explore innovative solutions.
It is up to individual member states to make decisions regarding return hubs, and collaborative efforts are also encouraged.
He stated that these return hubs will be restricted to individuals with an “enforceable return decision,” and agreements must specifically exclude unaccompanied minors.
The proposed legislation will also prioritize measures to prevent migrant smuggling, according to Brunner.
European Commission Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen indicated that their main focus will be on supporting voluntary returns, emphasizing, “that is still the main priority,” and assuring that all agreements will adhere to human rights standards.
Brunner acknowledged there is more work to be done in terms of reaching agreements with other countries, remarking, “we have to focus on that.”
“Returns are effective only if we have internal regulations in place, and subsequently, the next phase involves readmission and collaboration with third countries,” he explained.
He expressed hope that this legislation will be enacted as swiftly as possible.
“I sincerely hope that the Parliament and Council will approve this legislation without delay.”
