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EU Expands Deportation Powers, Plans Offshore Detention Amid Taliban Talks

6/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

European Parliament voted on June 17, 2026 to expand EU deportation powers and permit overseas detention facilities.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the new Return Regulation will speed returns.
UN human rights chief Volker Turk warned the rules could raise detention, create offshore hubs and weaken refoulement safeguards.
The Commission arranged a technical meeting with Taliban officials in Brussels for June 22-23, despite Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot’s public opposition.

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Story summary

European Parliament voted on June 17, 2026 to expand EU deportation powers and permit overseas detention facilities.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the new Return Regulation will speed returns.
UN human rights chief Volker Turk warned the rules could raise detention, create offshore hubs and weaken refoulement safeguards.
The Commission arranged a technical meeting with Taliban officials in Brussels for June 22-23, despite Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot’s public opposition.