European Parliament passes EU migrant return law amid chanting protests

The European Parliament voted 418‑218, with 30 abstentions, to approve a new Return Regulation that speeds the removal of third‑country nationals staying illegally in the EU. The measure allows member states to detain migrants for up to 24 months, with a possible six‑month extension, and creates a framework for “return hubs” in third countries willing to receive people with return decisions.

The vote triggered right‑wing MEPs to stand, applaud and chant “send them back,” while left‑wing members responded with shouts of “shame on you.” Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed the outcome as a historic success, and other right‑leaning politicians in France and Austria praised it. Critics, including the UN human‑rights chief, warned that the rules could expand detention, weaken safeguards and dehumanise migrants.

The legislation still requires formal approval by the Council of the European Union and publication in the Official Journal before it can take effect.