Without deportations, migration policy is meaningless, says minister

Minister of Migration and Asylum Makis Voridis has called for a more effective return system for third-country nationals residing illegally in the EU, emphasizing that without deportations, migration policy becomes “meaningless.”

Briefing a parliamentary committee, Voridis presented the European Commission’s proposed regulation to establish a common EU return framework. The plan includes updating the 2008 Return Directive and incorporating key EU proposals to streamline deportation procedures.

A central feature is the introduction of a European Return Order, whereby a deportation decision in one member state would be recognized EU-wide. The proposal also strengthens administrative detention rules, extending the maximum detention period from 18 to 24 months, and introduces alternative control measures such as electronic bracelets, financial guarantees or regular police check-ins.

To curb abuse of the asylum system and ensure enforcement, the proposal includes deterrent measures, such as restricting benefits and entry bans for uncooperative individuals. Voridis also highlighted the role of return hubs, which would allow deportations under agreements with third countries that respect international human rights standards.

Voridis said he will present a bill incorporating these changes to the cabinet later this month.

However, opposition MPs voiced concerns. PASOK MP Nadia Giannakopoulou agreed that illegal migrants should be returned in line with European and international law, but stressed the need for a “substantial and effective immigration policy.”

SYRIZA MP Konstantinos Barkas condemned the proposed regulation as ideologically biased, arguing it reflects the EU’s shift from protecting rights to criminalizing vulnerable people.

Kathimerini