The European Parliament on Thursday approved plans to facilitate the creation of offshore detention centers for migrants and impose tougher penalties on those staying in the bloc without authorization, highlighting deep divisions over migration policy within the European Union.
Lawmakers voted 389 to 206 to adopt the Parliament’s position on the EU Return Regulation, clearing the way for negotiations with member states on the final legislation.
The proposal, backed by a coalition of center-right and far-right lawmakers, would allow EU countries to establish so-called “return hubs” in third countries. Under the plan, migrants whose asylum applications have been rejected could be transferred to these facilities outside the EU.
“If you come to Europe illegally, rest assured that you will not stay here,” said French lawmaker François-Xavier Bellamy.
The package also includes stricter penalties for migrants who refuse to leave, including longer detention periods and entry bans.
Several EU countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Greece and Denmark, are already exploring agreements with African nations to host such facilities.
Human rights groups strongly criticized the measures, warning they risk violating international law.
“These appalling laws will push innocent people into hiding for fear of prison and deportation,” said Italian lawmaker Cecilia Strada.
Amnesty International described the vote as part of a growing shift toward “harmful, exclusionary and draconian policies,” cautioning that return hubs carry serious risks of rights violations. The International Rescue Committee said the facilities could become “legal black holes.”
Talks between the European Parliament and EU member states on the final version of the regulation are expected to begin soon.