On Tuesday, March 11, the European Commission introduced a new mechanism for the return of illegal migrants, which includes the creation of temporary detention centers for migrants in third countries.
This initiative is part of the updated Migration and Asylum Pact, which is set to come into effect in 2024, and aims to establish a pan-European system for the return of migrants.
A key element of the proposal is the creation of “return centers” that would allow EU countries to sign agreements with third countries for the temporary detention of illegal migrants pending their deportation.
Italy has already established such centers under an agreement with Albania. However, the European Commission emphasizes that these centers must meet international standards and human rights principles.
Additionally, the proposal includes the adoption of a unified EU regulation on migrant returns, which would help eliminate discrepancies in national procedures. There are also measures to tighten control over migrants who have committed crimes or pose a security threat.
Currently, migrant returns are regulated by the 2008 directive, but last year, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen promised to update this document.
