Overview
- EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner reports the return rate rose to 27% in the first three quarters of 2025, up from 19% in 2023, projecting the highest level since 2019.
- The European Parliament approved a seven-country safe-origin list in December, enabling fast border procedures with decisions and removals targeted within six months.
- Commission proposals from early 2025 would cut benefits for non‑cooperating migrants, allow up to 24 months of pre‑removal detention for flight risk, and permit indefinite detention for certain criminal offenders.
- Member states are set to mutually recognize return decisions, with reforms aimed at preventing rejected applicants from avoiding removal by moving within the EU.
- Plans include temporary facilities outside the EU to process returns, and the Netherlands has signed a contract with Uganda to host such centers.