World Immigration News

EXPLAINER | Fortress Europe: will crackdown on illegal immigration and dodgy asylum claims come to pass?

Release Date: 2025-01-14
Media: Baird Maritime
Summary: In 2025, migration policy in Europe is expected to be shaped by growing concerns over migrant crime, with immigration becoming a major political issue. The European Union (EU) is set to implement a revised asylum pact by 2026, focusing on fast-tracking asylum procedures and deportations. However, rights groups warn that these measures could undermine asylum seekers' rights, increasing the risk of arbitrary detention and pushbacks at EU borders.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has made cracking down on illegal migration and people smuggling a central part of his policy, working with Italy and Germany on joint efforts. The EU is also set to vote on the "facilitation directive" aimed at combating migrant smuggling, though activists are concerned it could criminalize those who assist migrants.

The EU is exploring ways to speed up asylum processes, including expanding the list of "safe list countries" to accelerate deportations. There is also talk of creating "return hubs" outside the EU, similar to the UK's scrapped Rwanda plan, to handle rejected asylum seekers more efficiently.

Additionally, some EU countries have extended temporary border checks within the Schengen Area and are increasing investment in physical barriers and AI-powered border controls. These technologies, however, have raised concerns from activists who argue that they create a double standard between EU citizens and migrants.
Tags: EUROPE

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