Story perspectives

EU Approves Offshore Return Hubs, Extends Detention to 24 Months

6/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

EU institutions adopted a provisional Return Regulation on June 1 that authorises offshore “return hubs” for rejected asylum seekers.
The regulation raises the maximum detention period for returnees from six to 24 months, with a possible six-month extension for flight-risk cases.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola praised the deal as necessary for a credible return policy.
Greens negotiator Mélissa Camara called the outcome a shame and a historic step backwards.

1 of 1

Story summary

EU institutions adopted a provisional Return Regulation on June 1 that authorises offshore “return hubs” for rejected asylum seekers.
The regulation raises the maximum detention period for returnees from six to 24 months, with a possible six-month extension for flight-risk cases.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola praised the deal as necessary for a credible return policy.
Greens negotiator Mélissa Camara called the outcome a shame and a historic step backwards.