EU migration pact tightens rules, speeds up deportations

A new EU migration and asylum pact entered into force in mid‑June, after lengthy negotiations that produced a compromise accepted by the majority of member states. The agreement expands external border controls, shortens asylum procedures and introduces enforceable EU‑wide standards. It allows countries to contribute financially to migrant management rather than accept mandatory quotas, a point highlighted by Czech officials who said the pact meets their national security demands amid the large Ukrainian refugee presence.

In the European Parliament, the proposal was approved by a 418‑218 vote, driven by the centre‑right European People’s Party and the European Conservatives and Reformists, with notable backing from Slovak MEPs of the Progressive Slovakia group. The text adds terms such as “effective return” and “without unnecessary delay,” facilitating quicker deportations of migrants deemed to have unfounded asylum claims or to pose security risks. While many right‑leaning parties praised the measures, some left‑wing and liberal groups warned that they could jeopardise migrants’ rights and lead to illegal detentions.