The European Union’s recent push to expedite deportations of asylum seekers has ignited significant human rights concerns, particularly as Greece faces condemnation for systematic pushbacks.
The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) ruled against Greece for the illegal deportation of a Turkish asylum seeker, identifying the act as part of a “systematic practice” of pushbacks. The court found that the individual was expelled without an assessment of potential harm upon return, violating multiple articles of the European Convention on Human Rights .
Despite such rulings, the EU is advancing policies to accelerate deportations. The European Commission has proposed fast-tracking asylum applications from nationals of seven countries deemed “safe,” aiming to process claims within three months instead of the usual six. This move is intended to address the backlog of asylum applications and reduce pressure on migrant reception facilities .
Additionally, the EU plans to establish “return hubs” in non-EU countries to detain individuals awaiting deportation. These centers would hold rejected asylum seekers, excluding unaccompanied minors, for up to two years if deemed a security risk. Critics argue that such measures could lead to prolonged detention and undermine the right to asylum .
Greece, a primary entry point for migrants into the EU, recorded over 60,000 new arrivals in 2024, marking a significant increase from the previous year. The country has been accused of engaging in pushbacks, a practice where migrants are forcibly returned without due process. The ECtHR’s ruling against Greece underscores the need for the EU to ensure that its migration policies align with human rights obligations .
As the EU seeks to implement these new measures, human rights organizations urge caution, emphasizing the importance of upholding international law and protecting the rights of asylum seekers.
