On June 17, the European Parliament adopted a new regulation on the expulsion of foreigners who have been denied asylum in the EU but cannot be returned to their home country. 418 members voted in favor, 218 voted against, and 30 abstained.

The regulation provides for the creation of special residence centers in third countries for individuals who do not have the right to reside in the European Union. Specific partner countries have not yet been identified, but according to AFP, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Rwanda, and Uganda are among the possible options being considered. Several EU countries—including Germany, Austria, and Denmark—have previously advocated for a similar mechanism.

In addition, the document tightens measures against migrants who refuse to leave the EU: it proposes a broader use of detention, the systematic introduction of re-entry bans, and the possible reduction or complete abolition of social benefits.

Brussels hopes that the new rules will improve the effectiveness of deportations: according to available data, only one in four of those against whom a deportation decision is made actually returns home.