Bangladeshi asylum seekers are set to face tougher scrutiny and faster rejection under a new European Union migration policy, as Bangladesh has been included in a proposed joint EU “safe country” list.
The Council of the European Union on Monday finalised its position on a new law aimed at speeding up the return of people staying illegally in EU member states and simplifying the rejection of asylum applications.
The policy marks a significant tightening of Europe’s migration system, although it will only come into force after approval by the European Parliament in the coming months.
Under the new rules, asylum applications from nationals of countries deemed “safe” can be rejected at an early stage through accelerated procedures. As Bangladesh is included on the proposed list, Bangladeshi applicants would face limited opportunities to explain individual risks through lengthy asylum processes, rights groups say.
Interior ministers from the EU’s 27 member states have also backed the establishment of processing and return centres outside EU borders. These so-called “return hubs” would temporarily house rejected asylum seekers before deportation to their home countries or transfer to third countries.
The proposed return regulation introduces stricter obligations for those ordered to leave the EU. Irregular migrants would be required to cooperate with authorities by providing identity documents and biometric data. Failure to comply could result in loss of work permits, withdrawal of benefits, detention and long-term or indefinite bans from entering EU territory.
A key feature of the policy is the possible introduction of a European Return Order (ERO), under which a deportation order issued by one EU country would be enforceable across all member states.
Human rights organisations have strongly criticised the measures, warning that transfers to third countries could expose migrants to unsafe conditions, discrimination or rights abuses. While the EU maintains that all agreements will respect human rights standards, campaigners remain sceptical about their implementation.
For the first time, the EU has agreed in principle to a common “safe country” list. Besides Bangladesh, the list includes EU candidate states and several non-EU countries such as Colombia, Egypt, India, Kosovo, Morocco and Tunisia.
Critics have questioned Bangladesh’s inclusion, citing concerns over political repression, human rights violations and restrictions on freedom of expression. They argue that the designation risks the summary rejection of asylum claims from individuals who may face genuine persecution.
The European Commission says the reforms are designed to curb irregular migration and focus protection on those most in need. Rights groups, however, warn that many applications—particularly from Bangladesh—may now be deemed “manifestly unfounded” and dismissed at the outset.
The proposed legislation is expected to be debated in the European Parliament in the coming months. If approved, the new migration framework could take effect from 2026, significantly reshaping Europe’s asylum system.
London-based barrister Salahuddin Suman said the development was “clearly bad news” for Bangladeshi asylum seekers, warning that many now face heightened uncertainty and a far greater risk of rapid return.