The main changes include expedited border checks, detention, and transfer to “return centers.” The refugee status determination process is now faster. Individuals whose applications are rejected are subject to immediate return.
Irregular migrants who pose a security threat or evade the return process face detention for up to 24 months (depending on the laws of the specific country). Those whose applications are denied may be transferred to safe third countries to await deportation or have their cases reviewed outside the EU.
Additionally, amid the migration crisis, many countries are tightening controls at the internal borders of the Schengen Area and conducting stricter checks on individuals who have exceeded their stay limits.
EU countries have agreed to assist one another with the relocation of refugees, providing financial or operational support. Previously, the primary responsibility for a migrant lay with the country that first accepted their asylum application.
In addition, the pact can be “supplemented” with additional measures—for example, a list of safe countries or a separate document on the EU return system.
Brussels is currently discussing the possibility of creating “return hubs”—external centers outside the EU where applicants who have not been granted asylum in the EU will be sent. Among the countries where such centers could be located, the European press has mentioned Albania, African countries, as well as Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, but the latter have already stated that they have not given their consent.
