10/28 – International News Story

Ursula von der Leyen is set to introduce stricter laws and further measures to deport rejected asylum seekers, reinforcing the European Union’s shift toward tougher migration policies as anti-immigrant parties continue to gain traction across Europe.

Over half of EU member states, including France and Germany, have called on the EU to tighten its deportation policies ahead of a meeting of 27 EU leaders last Thursday. Now, the head of the EU’s executive branch is formally endorsing these deportation efforts.

At a press conference, von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, mentioned that leaders had discussed establishing deportation centers outside the EU’s borders, which she referred to as “return hubs.” These proposals for enhancing deportation mechanisms come at a time when the number of migrants entering the EU is actually declining. In 2023, fewer than 300,000 people arrived in Europe, and this year, the EU border agency Frontex estimates only around 160,000 migrants have entered. This stands in stark contrast to 2015, when over a million people crossed into the EU during the peak of Europe’s migration crisis. [Politico]

“Currently, only 20 percent of those who are ordered to leave the European Union are actually returned to their home countries,” von der Leyen said.

She added that the concept of “return hubs” is not insignificant, though it has been under discussion for a while now. European leaders are endorsing the establishment of deportation centers, as well as deportations to Afghanistan and Syria, and supporting Poland’s move to ban asylum seekers.

To expand its deportation efforts, the EU may also reconsider its definition of a legally “safe” country.

Austria’s Chancellor, Karl Nehammer, suggested that Syria, still under the rule of Bashar Assad, and Afghanistan, governed by the Taliban, could be classified as safe countries. Italy is leading efforts to send refugees back to Syria, despite the country’s ongoing civil war, which began in 2011 and led to a severing of diplomatic ties with the EU.

At the same meeting, von der Leyen also endorsed other proposals aimed at reducing migration. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk received backing for his proposed ban on asylum seekers from Russia and Belarus, citing concerns that Moscow was deliberately sending migrants to Europe to destabilize Poland. [Politico] 

EU leaders fully supported the proposed asylum ban.

“Russia and Belarus, or any other country, cannot be allowed to exploit our values,” read the agreement signed by all leaders. “Exceptional circumstances require appropriate measures.”

A notable dissent came from Spain’s Socialist Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, who framed migration as beneficial for his country’s economy.

When asked about the “return hubs” during a press conference, Sánchez expressed opposition: “We do not support such measures; they don’t solve problems and create new ones.” [Politico]

Along with Germany, Sánchez advocated for a greater focus on the EU’s landmark migration and asylum agreement, which was reached last December.

OPINION:

As the European Union takes necessary measures to tighten its migration policies, some argue that these measures are excessive or even inhumane. Yet Europe has, for years, faced an unsustainable strain on its cultural fabric, social services, and security, making stricter deportation policies a necessity rather than a choice.

President Ursula von der Leyen’s recent endorsement of tougher deportation laws is a logical step toward restoring control over Europe’s borders and addressing the deep-seated consequences of migration that resonate across the continent.

Europe’s migration policies were initially built on values of humanitarianism and solidarity, crafted during a time when migrant flows were more manageable. That vision is no longer sustainable. Even as the number of new arrivals has decreased since the 2015 crisis, past waves of migration have left lasting impacts. In countries like France, Germany, and Sweden, urban centers are struggling to integrate large numbers of newcomers, resulting in rising tensions and shifting demographics. Many of these communities have struggled to assimilate into their host countries, leading citizens to question their nation’s capacity to absorb further waves.

This pressure extends beyond cultural concerns to public services. Europe’s schools, healthcare systems, and social support programs are feeling the strain, as they work to accommodate populations that often arrive with high support needs. Integrating such numbers, especially when language and educational backgrounds vary widely, is a complex and costly endeavor. To maintain the quality of life for all residents, EU nations must draw a line, ensuring that public services aren’t eroded to the point where they are unable to serve either their citizens or new arrivals effectively.

Rising migration rates have correlated with increasing crime rates in some regions, adding a legitimate security concern. While this does not imply that all migrants are involved in crime, studies have shown that certain groups face challenges with economic hardship, cultural adjustment, and integration, leading to social issues that only heighten the need for stricter control. If Europe’s values include maintaining safe and cohesive communities, stronger migration policies are not just preferable—they’re essential.

President von der Leyen’s proposals, including “return hubs” and stricter deportation rules, address this urgent need for order within the migration system. “Return hubs” outside EU borders have faced criticism, but they provide a practical solution to manage the backlog of cases for those who don’t meet asylum requirements. The EU cannot indefinitely support those who don’t qualify, particularly as resources are stretched. This pragmatic approach doesn’t reject Europe’s values; it reaffirms them, prioritizing legitimate asylum seekers without overwhelming host societies.

Some leaders, like Austria’s Chancellor Karl Nehammer, propose defining Syria and Afghanistan as “safe” countries, acknowledging the need for a reasonable boundary despite the difficult conditions there. Supporting measures like Poland’s asylum bans from Russia and Belarus also prevents migration from being weaponized to destabilize Europe’s borders. Such policies reflect a strong stance that Europe’s migration system cannot be exploited without consequence. Europe’s core values must be protected, and tightening its borders is key to this mission.

These policies are controversial, as leaders like Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez advocate for migration’s economic benefits. But in the current climate, Europe’s stability does not align with an unchecked approach. Stricter migration policies help establish sustainable systems that benefit both citizens and legitimate migrants, preventing resentment and mistrust from eroding cohesion within communities.

As the EU confronts a shifting global landscape, where tough living conditions and political instability drive constant migration pressures, Europe’s relatively liberal migration system has proven vulnerable. Instead of primarily supporting vulnerable families, the system now sees an influx of able-bodied young men seeking economic opportunity rather than asylum. Europe must adapt to this shifting reality and recalibrate policies to protect its resources and remain a haven for those truly in need. For Europe’s long-term prosperity and unity, these policies are essential.