Europe's Migration Policy Faces a Hardening Shift

As migration debates intensify within the European Union, a growing consensus among leaders indicates a move towards stricter immigration policies, resembling the approaches seen in the U.S.

Across Europe, immigration discourse is seeing a radical change. When Nicola Procaccini entered the European Parliament six years ago, his right-leaning party’s firm stance on immigration led to ostracization from mainstream colleagues. Now, the situation has flipped, with the Brothers of Italy, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, gaining popularity and influence. Procaccini, as chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists group, observes a notable shift in political attitudes toward immigration policy.

This burgeoning acceptance of hardline immigration policies extends beyond right-wing factions. Centrist politicians are increasingly aligning with conservative agendas to facilitate the deportation of undocumented migrants. Denmark's "zero" refugee policy has set a precedent that other EU nations are eager to follow. Currently, EU officials are collaborating on new regulations that would enable the relocation of asylum-seekers to third countries, alongside a recent agreement to enhance border management in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

While irregular border crossings rose temporarily during the pandemic, recent data indicates a decline, suggesting that Europe is navigating its migration challenges through stricter policing and new strategic measures. This political evolution reflects an entrenched commitment to tougher immigration controls, resonating differently across the continent compared to the tumultuous responses in the United States.