The European Parliament voted 418 to 218, with 30 abstentions, to approve the Return Regulation, a measure designed to expedite the deportation of third-country nationals residing illegally in the EU. The vote was followed by heated exchanges, with right-wing lawmakers chanting "send them back" and left-wing lawmakers responding with "shame on you."
The legislation, which still requires formal approval by the Council of the EU and publication in the Official Journal, would allow member states to detain migrants for up to 24 months, with a possible six-month extension. It also establishes a framework for "return hubs" in third countries willing to receive migrants with return decisions.
Supporters argue the rules are necessary due to low deportation rates, citing that only around 20% of migrants with return decisions are actually deported. Critics, however, warn of human rights concerns and the potential for prolonged detention.
The vote underscores deep divisions within the EU over migration policy, as the bloc grapples with growing public frustration over illegal immigration.