**LONDON**
The European Commission unveiled a proposal Tuesday for a new Common European System for Returns to streamline and improve return procedures across the EU.
Announced by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the proposal seeks to address the EU’s low return rate, currently at 20%, and reduce fragmentation among differing systems of member states.
The new rules will create a single legal framework for issuing return decisions and European Return Orders, which will be mutually recognized by all member states.
It will eliminate the need for separate processes for returning individuals who have overstayed their visas or are illegally present.
The system focuses on incentivizing voluntary returns but mandates forced returns when those fail to cooperate, abscond or pose a security risk.
Strong safeguards will protect fundamental rights throughout the process, ensuring respect for human rights, appeals and support for vulnerable groups like minors and families.
The proposal includes specific rules for individuals identified as security risks, allowing extended detention if necessary, and aims to improve cooperation with third countries for the readmission of returnees.
The new legal framework, part of the broader Migration and Asylum Pact, will replace the 2008 Return Directive to ensure quicker and more efficient asylum processing.
The European Parliament and Council will negotiate the proposal before it becomes law.
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