On June 17 2026, the European Parliament approved the new Return Regulation by 418 votes in favor, 218 against, and 30 abstentions.
This replaces the 2008 Returns Directive and aims to make deportations ("returns") of illegal aliens in the EU more effective, uniform, and faster. It's backed by center-right, conservatives and far-right groups, with some liberals, reflecting a rightward shift on migration in the current EU Parliament. Post-vote, right-wing MEPs chanted "send them back".
