A major point of criticism is the expanded possibility to detain rejected asylum seekers. The option to transfer undocumented immigrants to return camps outside the European Union also meets strong opposition. Critics argue that these measures may result in prolonged restrictions on freedom and insufficient protection of the rights of those involved.
Vulnerable People
The Roman Catholic bishops warn that all migration policies must be based on the inviolable dignity of every person. They emphasize that even people without residence permits have the right to fair treatment and adequate legal protection. Extra attention and protection are especially needed for vulnerable individuals.
Fewer Rights
Human rights organizations agree. They fear that the new rules could lead to situations where people have limited access to legal protection or oversight. According to them, fundamental rights must be guaranteed under all circumstances, even when return policies are tightened.
Promotion
The debate flared up again last week after the European Parliament approved the new Return Regulation. The law aims to speed up and better enforce the return of people who have no right to stay in the European Union.
Far Right
The vote was not without tension. The (far-)right majority in the European Parliament voted in favor of the proposal. Immediately after the result, strong reactions erupted in the chamber. Right-wing MEPs chanted slogans calling for rejected migrants to be sent back (‘send them back’), while other parliamentarians responded with dissaproving cries (‘shame on you’).
Confrontation
This confrontation highlighted how divided opinions are on European migration policy. Supporters see stricter return rules as necessary to maintain the credibility of existing agreements. Opponents fear that fundamental rights protections will be undermined as a result.
According to church organizations and other critics, migration should not be viewed solely as a matter of border control or return procedures. They point out that behind every case is a human being entitled to treatment that respects his or her dignity.
Two Types
They emphasize that many people leave their countries because of war, violence, persecution, poverty, or other serious circumstances. European policy must continue to take these backgrounds into account and provide sufficient protection for those who depend on it. Supporters say that applications from refugees fleeing dangerous war countries will be treated differently than those from asylum seekers seeking a better life.
The European Commission also highlighted, in a statement almost simultaneous with World Refugee Day (June 19), the importance of protection for people forced to flee. According to the Commission, protecting refugees and respecting their rights remains an important responsibility of the European Union.