BRUSSELS, Belgium, March 26, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - European lawmakers cleared the way Thursday for tougher penalties for irregular migrants and their potential deportation to so-called "return hubs" outside the bloc. The measures, criticised by human rights groups, are part of a tightening of Europe's immigration rules in response to pressure across the 27-nation bloc to curb migration. The reform would notably allow for the opening of centres or "return hubs" outside the EU's borders to which migrants whose asylum applications have been rejected would be sent. It also envisages harsher penalties for migrants who refuse to leave, including through detention and entry bans. - 'ICE-style' -Proponents say the hubs could act as a deterrent and discourage migrants from attempting to reach Europe in the first place.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha March 26, 2026 13:18 UTC