EU Approves New Measures to Tighten Immigration Policy

On December 8, 2025, interior ministers from the 27 European Union (EU) member states convened in Brussels and approved a comprehensive package aimed at tightening immigration policies. This package includes the establishment of "return centers" outside EU borders for migrants whose asylum applications have been rejected, the transfer of these individuals to countries deemed "safe," and increased penalties for those who refuse to leave EU territory. This decision comes despite a reported 22% decrease in illegal entries into the EU compared to the previous year, as noted by the European border agency Frontex.

EU countries approve package to tighten immigration policy, create 'return centers' outside the bloc and send rejected immigrants to countries considered safe, resulting in a 20% drop in illegal entriEU Countries Support Tightening of Migration PolicyThe New Zealand Herald

The push for these new measures is largely driven by a growing public sentiment against immigration and the rising influence of far-right political parties across Europe. EU Commissioner for Migration Magnus Brunner emphasized the need for swift action, stating, "We need to act faster... people need to feel that we are in control of the situation." The urgency is further compounded by Denmark's presidency of the EU, which has advocated for stricter immigration controls.

EU Countries Support Tightening of Migration Policy

The proposed measures have sparked significant concern among human rights organizations and some EU member states. Critics argue that the creation of return centers may transfer responsibilities to countries with inadequate protection systems for migrants. France has raised questions about the legality and effectiveness of the proposals, particularly regarding the transfer of rejected asylum seekers to third countries. Spain has expressed skepticism about the viability of return centers, citing previous unsuccessful attempts in other nations.

EU countries approve package to tighten immigration policy, create 'return centers' outside the bloc and send rejected immigrants to countries considered safe, resulting in a 20% drop in illegal entri

In addition to the return centers, the EU is also working on a "solidarity system" to redistribute at least 30,000 asylum seekers among member states. Countries under pressure, such as Greece and Italy, are expected to receive support, either through the acceptance of asylum seekers or financial contributions of €20,000 per person from other member states. However, many countries, including Belgium, Sweden, and Austria, have indicated a preference for financial contributions over accepting additional migrants, highlighting the political risks associated with taking in asylum seekers.

EU countries approve package to tighten immigration policy, create 'return centers' outside the bloc and send rejected immigrants to countries considered safe, resulting in a 20% drop in illegal entri

The approved package will now proceed to the European Parliament for further consideration. EU officials are under pressure to finalize the details of the resettlement plan by the end of the year to avoid exacerbating internal divisions within the bloc. As discussions continue, the balance between humanitarian obligations and political realities remains a contentious issue within the EU.

EU countries approve package to tighten immigration policy, create 'return centers' outside the bloc and send rejected immigrants to countries considered safe, resulting in a 20% drop in illegal entri

• “We need to act faster,” — Magnus Brunner, EU Commissioner for Migration

EU Countries Support Tightening of Migration Policy

• “Instead of investing in safety, protection, and inclusion, the EU is choosing policies that will push more people into danger and legal limbo,” — Silvia Carta, PICUM

The New Zealand Herald