Shouts of “send them back” filled the European Parliament following the approval of a major overhaul to the European Union’s migrant return system, highlighting the increasing pressure on immigration policies amid rising public discontent.
On Wednesday, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) voted 418 to 218, with 30 abstentions, in favor of the Return Regulation. This regulation aims to facilitate the expulsion of individuals from third countries living in the EU without legal status.
The atmosphere became charged quickly; after the vote was announced, right-leaning lawmakers erupted into applause while chanting “send them back,” as shown in videos from the event. In contrast, left-wing politicians countered with shouts of “shame on you!”
Despite the bill still needing formal approval from the Council of the European Union and subsequent publication in the Official Gazette, this standoff reflects the ongoing divisions across Europe regarding migration, even as the EU pushes forward with policies that were once deemed politically sensitive.
The newly adopted rules allow member states to detain certain migrants for periods of up to 24 months, with possible extensions of six months. They also establish “return centers” in third countries, where migrants can be sent if they choose to return.
Proponents argue that these rules are essential, as EU nations struggle with the implementation of deportation orders. The European Conservative and Reform Group (ECR) cited that only about 20% of those receiving a return decision actually leave.
This vote came on the heels of reports indicating that the EU appears to be shifting toward stricter border and asylum rules in light of rising concerns regarding illegal immigration. These new measures include enhanced screening processes, identity verification, and the collection of biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition.
Conservative leaders are viewing this parliamentary decision as a significant win. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni referred to the outcome as a “huge success” and labeled the bill a “historic measure.” Other right-wing figures from France and Austria see this moment as evidence of increasing influence from conservative factions reshaping EU policies.
However, critics argue that lawmakers are dehumanizing migrants and undermining essential protections. Javi López, the vice-president of the European Parliament from the Socialist Party, criticized the session as “disgraceful,” while Ilaria Salisu from the Italian Green Party called the celebrations “horrible.”
Moreover, human rights advocates are raising alarms over these new rules. UN human rights chief Volker Türk cautioned that they could lead to increased detention, establish maritime return hubs, and weaken protections against forced returns.
