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The European Parliament passed sweeping immigration enforcement legislation on Wednesday by a vote of 418 to 218, with 30 abstentions, approving the Return Regulation — a measure that would dramatically accelerate the removal of migrants living illegally in European Union member states.
The chamber erupted immediately after the result was announced, with right-wing lawmakers rising to applaud and chant "send them back," while lawmakers on the left responded with chants of "shame on you." What the Return Regulation Actually Does The legislation gives member states the authority to detain certain migrants for up to 24 months, with the possibility of a further six-month extension.
It also creates a framework for so-called "return hubs" — facilities outside the European Union, in third countries willing to receive migrants who have been issued removal orders.
The rules come with stricter screening and identity checks, including the use of biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition.
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