EU backs expanded deportation powers and offshore return hubs

Lawmakers approve measures aimed at speeding up removals, with employers warned of knock-on labour supply pressures

A family stands in front of a fence on the border with the European Union
iStock.com/Stadtratte

EU lawmakers have formally approved tougher migration rules that expand member states’ powers to deport failed asylum seekers and allows the creation of “return hubs” in non‑EU countries.&nbs