New EU Asylum Policy Takes Effect, Aiming to Streamline Processing at Borders

Stricter asylum rules have been implemented across the European Union, taking effect from midnight. The new regulations, part of the Common European Asylum System (Geas), aim to overhaul decades of asylum policy and create a more unified approach among member states.

A primary objective of the reform is to prevent asylum seekers from migrating freely between EU countries, a practice known as secondary migration, which has caused significant friction between member states for years. The new rules mandate that asylum claims will be processed and potentially rejected at the EU's external borders, before individuals formally enter the bloc.

During this border processing period, asylum seekers will be housed in closed facilities. This measure is intended to accelerate asylum procedures and deportations for those deemed unlikely to be granted protection. The reform also introduces a solidarity mechanism to support frontline states that receive a disproportionate number of arrivals, through financial contributions, material aid, or the relocation of asylum seekers.

In Germany, a new screening center has opened at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) in Schönefeld. This facility will assess asylum applicants for potential threats to national security or public order before they enter the country. Authorities will also check for attempts to deceive about identity or origin, particularly for individuals from countries where asylum claims have a low chance of success. Further similar centers are planned.

EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner stated that Geas strengthens trust between member states and grants Europe greater control. Germany will not be required to contribute to a solidarity fund for this year, as it has already accepted a significant number of asylum seekers for whom other countries were responsible. Deadlines for the return of these individuals have passed.