Swedish MEP Charlie Weimers, a member of the European Conservatives and Reformists group, has declared that the European Union has entered an “era of deportations.” Speaking in a video statement, Weimers argued that the bloc is now grappling with the repercussions of prolonged illegal migration, even as official figures show a decline in new arrivals.
Weimers, who represents Sweden in the European Parliament, stressed that the core challenge lies not in border enforcement but in the repatriation of those already present without legal status. “We need countries to take back their own citizens,” he said, identifying this as “one of the major obstacles to effective returns.” His remarks come amid a broader push by several member states to tighten migration and asylum policies.
The MEP’s comments align with recent developments in Sweden, where the government has raised the deportation age for teenage migrants to 21, a policy shift that reflects a tougher stance on irregular migration. This move is part of a wider trend across Europe, where nations from France to Cyprus are debating stricter controls and faster removal procedures.
Weimers’ declaration also echoes the tone of the recently agreed EU Migration and Asylum Pact, which aims to streamline deportations and share responsibility among member states. Critics, however, warn that the pact could lead to human rights violations and increased detention. The Swedish MEP dismissed such concerns, framing the policy as a necessary correction after years of what he termed “uncontrolled migration.”
EU Migration Deal Ushers in 'Era of Deportations,' Swedish MEP Declares
The European Commission has reported that irregular border crossings into the EU fell by 42% in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period last year. Despite this, Weimers insists that the legacy of previous years continues to strain national systems. “The numbers may be down, but the consequences of years of illegal migration are still with us,” he said.
His call for countries to reclaim their nationals is a direct challenge to nations that have been reluctant to accept returnees, often citing diplomatic or logistical hurdles. The EU has long struggled with low return rates—only about 20% of those ordered to leave are actually deported. Weimers argues that without cooperation from countries of origin, the entire system remains ineffective.
The debate over deportations is intensifying across the continent. In Sweden, the government has not only raised the deportation age but also introduced stricter rules for family reunification and residency permits. These measures have drawn both support from right-wing parties and criticism from human rights organizations, who argue they undermine integration and due process.
Weimers’ remarks also touch on broader geopolitical tensions. The EU’s migration policies are increasingly intertwined with foreign relations, as seen in the push by France and Sweden to restrict trade with Israeli settlements. Such moves highlight how migration and trade are becoming linked in the bloc’s external agenda.
As the EU prepares to implement the new pact over the coming years, the “era of deportations” may become a defining feature of European politics. Whether it will lead to more efficient returns or deeper divisions among member states remains an open question. For now, Weimers and his allies are confident that the tide has turned.
