Macron Opposes Migrant «Return Centers» in Third Countries After European Parliament Vote

French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed disagreement with the European Union's decision to establish «return centers» for migrants in third countries. These centers are intended for individuals who have been denied asylum. Macron's statement, made at a press conference following the EU summit, was cited by Reuters and reported by «European Pravda».

Commenting on the new EU legislation, Macron emphasized that he does not consider such an approach effective in combating migration. He stated, «We advocate for a more effective return policy, but I have never seen a return center in a third country that actually works.» The French leader also questioned the alignment of such a policy with European values, saying, «I am not sure that this is the essence of our Europe. I am not sure that these are the fundamental principles upon which our Europe was built, and I also do not believe that it is effective.»

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also announced after the EU summit that Madrid does not support the creation of such centers, although it is in the minority on this issue. This week, the European Parliament voted in favor of new migration rules that allow EU countries to send migrants denied asylum to special centers in third countries. In early June, these new migration rules were agreed upon by negotiators from EU member states.