The European Union (EU) has adopted a tough stance on irregular migration, designating the return of migrants entering Europe illegally as an “urgent priority,” according to the European Commission (EC). In a clear statement on migration policy, the Commission emphasized that Europe itself will decide who may enter its borders.
To implement this approach, the European Commission has unveiled a new five-year plan for migration and asylum policies. The plan focuses on stringent control of irregular migration while strengthening cooperation with countries outside the EU.
EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner stated that reducing irregular arrivals is now the top priority. He warned that misuse of the migration system is fueling negative public perception, putting pressure on asylum systems and undermining Europe’s ability to attract skilled labor.
Analysts say the new plan is significant, especially as political pressure on the EU to curb irregular migration grows. Official data show that irregular arrivals across the EU dropped by at least 25% in 2025 compared to the previous year.
During the plan’s presentation, European Commission Executive Vice President Henna Virkunen stressed the importance of sustaining the current downward trend in irregular migration while expanding legal pathways for entry into Europe. She noted that failure to implement both measures in tandem would undermine the EU’s migration framework and hinder social and economic development.
The Commission’s statement outlined a “fair and robust” migration framework, including strict measures against human trafficking, prevention of asylum system abuse, and strategies to attract skilled workers to support Europe’s economy.
To expedite the return of irregular migrants and rejected asylum seekers, the Commission has proposed establishing “return hubs” in non-EU countries. However, human rights organizations have expressed concern, with Amnesty International warning that over-reliance on third countries could expose the EU to human rights violations.
The EU has already signed agreements with Libya, Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco, and Mauritania to tackle irregular migration. With the new five-year plan, the 27-member bloc aims to usher in a new chapter in its migration and asylum policies.