European Union lawmakers reach a political agreement on a new scheme allowing member states to send some migrants whose asylum applications are rejected to designated “return hubs” in third countries. Under the deal, migrants ordered to leave the EU are transferred to locations outside the bloc, where procedures related to return are carried out. The proposal is described as covering cases where asylum claims have been refused, rather than covering ongoing appeals.
The agreement is not immediately effective. It still requires formal approval through the EU’s legislative process, including endorsement by EU governments and the European Parliament. Until that approval is granted, the legislation cannot enter into force.
The plan remains controversial. Human rights groups criticize the “return hubs” concept, arguing it could raise concerns about migrants’ rights and safeguards during the return process. The outlets reporting on the agreement emphasize both the need for further official steps before implementation and the existence of ongoing criticism from civil society organizations.
