Brussels is making headlines with a major overhaul of its migration and visa systems, signalling a tougher stance on who enters and stays in the European Union. Despite a drop in irregular arrivals last year, political pressure has pushed the 27-nation bloc to unveil a new five-year strategy focused on “bringing illegal arrival numbers down and keeping them down.”
The core of this new approach? Boosting deportations for failed asylum-seekers. EU Commissioner for Migration, Magnus Brunner, emphasized that “abuse gives migration a bad name,” undermining public trust and the ability to attract talent. Plans are in motion for controversial “return hubs” outside EU borders, alongside harsher penalties like longer detention for migrants who refuse to leave. These measures have already drawn criticism from human rights groups like Amnesty International, who call the approach “flawed” and raise concerns about potential rights violations.
Beyond its borders, the EU is also stepping up its “assertive migration diplomacy.” This means striking deals with North African countries such as Tunisia, Mauritania, Egypt, and Morocco. In exchange for aid and investments, these nations are expected to help control migration flows and take back their citizens who have no right to stay in Europe.
But the changes aren’t just about controlling entries; they’re also about leveraging visas. The EU plans to use visa issuance as a powerful diplomatic tool. Countries that refuse to cooperate by taking back their nationals could face restrictions on visas, while skilled workers might find it easier to gain access. This dual strategy reflects a significant rightward shift in public opinion and political sentiment across the continent, promising a different landscape for migration to Europe.
Source: http://thearabweekly.com/eu-eyes-migration-clampdown-push-deportations-visa-overhaul
