The article discusses the evolving landscape of European migration policy following a recent EU summit. Member states aim to tighten asylum laws and create “return hubs” in safe third countries, reflecting a shift towards stricter measures. The Netherlands is exploring a potential return center in Uganda, while discussions about repatriations to Syria have resurfaced. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expresses skepticism towards outsourcing asylum processes, emphasizing the urgent implementation of the existing migration pact amid rising migration concerns.
In the realm of European migration policy, five months can feel like a lifetime. This reality has become increasingly apparent following the EU’s adoption of the migration and asylum pact earlier this spring, which has yet to be put into action. Key aspects of the pact are already starting to seem outdated.
During the recent EU summit in Brussels, discussions revealed that many of the 27 member states are eager to pursue more aggressive measures than those outlined in the pact. Migration dominated the agenda, becoming the focus of lengthy and passionate debates among the heads of state and government.
A Desire for Deterrence
The overarching sentiment from these discussions indicates a push for more stringent, binding, and effective European asylum laws. This shift comes in response to the rising influence of right-wing parties across Europe, with previously taboo topics now gaining mainstream acceptance. The goal appears twofold: to demonstrate a proactive stance to domestic audiences and to deter potential economic migrants from departing for Europe. One observer noted a trend towards an “Orbanization” of Europe, referencing the strict migration policies of Hungary’s Prime Minister.
The key phrase emerging from these talks is “innovative solutions.” European leaders are looking for new strategies to reduce the number of asylum seekers arriving on the continent, and to ensure that those denied refuge leave promptly. However, the methods for achieving this remain contentious.
A major point of debate centers on the concept of “return hubs”—centers in safe third-party countries where unsuccessful asylum seekers could be sent. The Netherlands has recently taken steps in this direction, with a government minister visiting Uganda to discuss the establishment of such a facility. The Netherlands hopes to facilitate deportations from nearby regions to this center, representing a significant shift in their migration policy.
Prime Minister Dick Schoof described the plan as serious but noted that details still need to be refined. The Netherlands aims to lead in migration issues; prior to the summit, they collaborated with Italy and Denmark to host an informal meeting of like-minded nations, involving eleven heads of state to strategize for future discussions.
Another potentially “innovative solution” could involve the repatriation of Syrians, as millions have fled the country due to ongoing conflict. While the EU has avoided negotiations with the Assad regime for over a decade, some member states are now reconsidering this stance. In the lead-up to the summit, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer suggested reassessing the security situation in Syria to enable repatriations. Germany is also contemplating the return of Syrian nationals who have committed crimes, following a recent precedent set for Afghan refugees.
Chancellor Scholz Expresses Caution
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen participated in morning discussions with countries most critical of migration policies, advocating for a stricter asylum system. She labeled return centers in third countries as a “potential step forward” and expressed openness to the Albanian model. Italy recently launched an asylum center in Albania, where migrants rescued from international waters are sent.
However, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz remains wary. He argues that initiatives like those adopted by Italy are insufficient for Germany’s needs, as they can only accommodate a limited number of asylum cases. With over 300,000 irregular migrant arrivals last year, Scholz emphasizes the necessity of implementing the previously agreed migration pact, which focuses on bolstering external border protections.
Scholz refrained from commenting on the Dutch plan regarding Uganda, highlighting logistical and legal challenges. The Ugandan foreign minister indicated skepticism about hosting a large center, pointing out that Uganda is already home to 1.6 million refugees from neighboring nations.
Final Declaration Reached
As the summit progressed, uncertainty lingered about whether a significant final declaration could be achieved. Ultimately, a declaration was reached, marking an important milestone, especially for Poland, which has been experiencing a surge in asylum requests amid increasing migrant arrivals via Belarus. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced plans to partially suspend asylum rights due to the situation.
The EU leaders expressed solidarity with Poland and reaffirmed their commitment to securing external borders. The final statement emphasized that “special circumstances require special measures,” raising questions about whether such measures might include immediate “push-backs” of migrants crossing borders without proper checks.
Scholz clarified that while exhausting all options at external borders is essential, any actions must adhere to European and international law.