Summary
The European Parliament approved a new law allowing EU countries to deport migrants to certain "safe" countries outside the EU, even if the migrants have no ties to those countries. This decision was made despite concerns from rights groups about potential mistreatment of migrants, with the law set to start in June after final approval.
Key Facts
- The European Parliament voted 396-226 to allow deportation of migrants to third countries considered “safe.”
- Migrants can be sent to countries they passed through, given those countries follow international migrant treatment standards.
- The new rules must still receive final approval from the 27 EU member governments.
- The law reflects increased support for stricter migration policies within the EU.
- Rights groups worry migrants could be sent to countries where they might be mistreated.
- A list of "safe countries" includes Bangladesh, Colombia, Egypt, India, Kosovo, Morocco, and Tunisia.
- Critics argue these “safe countries” have records of human rights concerns.
- The legislation follows broader EU migration policy reforms, emphasizing increased deportations.
