EU lists Bangladesh among 7 'safe' countries, tightening asylum rules
The European Union on Wednesday unveiled a proposed list of seven countries it classifies as 'safe,' aiming to streamline asylum procedures and accelerate the return of migrants from those nations.
The draft list includes Bangladesh, Kosovo, Colombia, Egypt, India, Morocco, and Tunisia. Before being enacted, the proposal must receive approval from both the European Parliament and EU member states.
By labeling these countries as safe, the EU intends to fast-track the processing of asylum requests from their citizens. Under the new approach, applications from individuals originating in these nations would generally be presumed unfounded—unless specific personal risks can be demonstrated.
'With many member states struggling with a growing backlog of asylum cases, we must find ways to speed up decisions,' said Magnus Brunner, EU Commissioner for Migration.
The move is part of a broader push by Brussels to manage irregular migration more effectively, especially amid rising public concern and the growing influence of far-right political forces across the continent.
The EU Commission also noted that countries seeking EU membership are typically expected to fulfill the criteria for being deemed safe. However, exceptions apply in cases of armed conflict or instability, as is the case with Ukraine.
Human rights organizations have voiced criticism of the proposal, warning it may undermine protections for individuals genuinely in need of asylum.
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