European Union lawmakers approved a major revamp of the bloc's migration laws, aiming to end division over managing the entry of unauthorized people and deprive the far right of a campaign issue. The reforms address responsibility for migrants and potential obligations for other EU countries.
Key Points
Approval by European Parliament, pending endorsement by 27 EU member countries
Main issue post-endorsement is full implementation by member states
Concerns about the enforcement by the European Commission
Pros
Aims to address years of division over managing unauthorized entry
Seeks to deprive the far right of a campaign issue
Establishes regulations for responsibility of migrants and potential obligations for EU countries
Cons
Controversial measures such as taking facial images and fingerprints from children as young as 6
Allows for detention during screening and fast-track deportation
Criticism from migrant and human rights groups for failing to offer sustainable solutions