Brussels, 18 June 2026
The Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organisations (FEMYSO) strongly condemns the European Parliament’s vote approving measures to deport migrants to so-called “return hubs” in non-EU countries.
This decision marks a dangerous step towards policies that undermine fundamental rights, weaken international protection systems, and shift responsibility beyond European borders. It reflects a wider trend in EU migration policies that prioritises deterrence and control over human dignity and justice.
FEMYSO warns that the creation of “return hubs” risks placing people in situations where their rights are not fully protected. Transferring individuals outside the EU may limit access to asylum procedures, legal safeguards, and independent oversight. This raises serious concerns about arbitrary detention, violations of the principle of non-refoulement, and the erosion of basic protections under international law.
The human impact of such policies is significant. Experiences from other countries, including the United States, show that similar approaches can result in family members being separated, children being placed in unsafe or inadequately supervised conditions, and vulnerable people being denied access to legal and social support. Such policies disproportionately affect certain communities due to systemic racial profiling and stereotyping, further deepening inequalities and social stigmas.
From a youth perspective, the consequences of these policies are especially concerning. Young migrants and international students often face significant barriers to stability, inclusion, and equal opportunities, and increased uncertainty around migration and return procedures can further undermine their access to education, training, employment, and support networks. This risks deepening exclusion and limiting the ability of young people to fully participate in society
These developments are part of a broader political climate in which exclusionary and far-right narratives are gaining ground across Europe. The increasing focus on restrictive migration policies signals a move away from the EU’s core values of human rights, solidarity, and the rule of law.
As a network representing young European Muslims, FEMYSO is particularly concerned about the wider impact of these policies. The continued outsourcing of migration responsibilities not only puts vulnerable people at risk, but also reinforces harmful narratives that stigmatise migrant communities, fuel Islamophobia, and deepen divisions in society.
“The adoption of “return hubs” represents a dangerous turning point in Europe’s migration policies. It shows a willingness to sidestep fundamental rights in favour of short-term political solutions that put vulnerable people at greater risk. As young European Muslims, we are deeply concerned by the normalisation of policies that reinforce exclusion, stigma, and division in our societies,” said Hiba Latreche, President of FEMYSO.
FEMYSO firmly rejects the outsourcing of migration responsibilities countries where human rights protections cannot be guaranteed. Such approaches do not provide sustainable solutions and instead expose people to further risks, including poor conditions, lack of legal support, and potential abuse.
FEMYSO calls on European institutions and Member States to:
- Halt the implementation of “return hub” mechanisms that undermine fundamental rights
- Uphold their obligations under international and European law, including the right to asylum and the principle of non-refoulement
- Promote migration policies based on dignity, protection, and solidarity
- Challenge narratives that exploit migration to justify discrimination and exclusion
FEMYSO stresses that Europe’s response to migration will define its commitment to human rights and justice. These measures risk setting a dangerous precedent that must be urgently challenged.
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- FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network of 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 22 European countries. It is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe.
- For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org.