UN human rights chief asks EU to 'reconsider' new migration policy

Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, has called on the European Union to carefully reconsider its recently adopted migration policy. The new regulations, which have been provisionally agreed upon by the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the Council of the EU, aim to toughen the bloc's stance on migration, expedite deportations, and introduce measures for sending migrants to third countries.

In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, Türk expressed concern over several aspects of the new policy. "The creation of return centers in third countries with limited guarantees, the expanded use of detention, including with children, and the weakening of protections that can lead to pushbacks, all deserve careful reconsideration," he stated. He stressed that these measures must align with international laws and the EU's own commitments to a migration management system that is fair, sustainable, and grounded in human rights.

The provisional agreement on the return regulation introduces a significant new element: the possibility for member states to deport migrants to 'return centers' located in countries other than their origin. This is contingent upon the prior establishment of an agreement and adherence to the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning individuals to territories where they face a threat to their life or freedom.

The UN official's appeal highlights ongoing debates and concerns surrounding the EU's approach to managing migration flows. Critics argue that such policies may undermine fundamental human rights and international refugee protections, while proponents contend they are necessary for border security and managing irregular migration. The EU's commitment to human rights, as referenced by Türk, remains a central point of contention in the implementation and assessment of these new measures.