Magnus Brunner is in the news as Europe’s new Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration (since Dec 2024). Austrian ÖVP politician, former minister.
The EU has reached a trilogue agreement to speed up returns of non-EU nationals and to expand detention outside the bloc, including possible hubs in third countries. The deal targets higher return rates and enables bilateral deals with non-EU states to host detention facilities, drawing praise from EU officials but criticism from rights groups and others who warn of risks to fundamental rights.
European lawmakers have finalised a reform granting authorities broader powers to detain irregular arrivals, create return hubs outside the bloc, and fast-track removals. The plan aims to curb irregular migration but has drawn criticism over potential human rights risks and the use of third countries for deportations.