EU proposes adding Kosovo to “safe countries” list to speed up deportations

The European Union has proposed classifying Kosovo as a “safe country of origin,” along with six others, in an effort to fast-track asylum rejections and returns. The proposal, reported by Radio Free Europe, aims to reduce pressure on EU asylum systems.

Why is this important: If approved, the designation would make it harder for Kosovo citizens to obtain asylum in the EU, as applications from “safe” countries are more likely to be rejected quickly. The move follows a sharp rise in asylum requests from Kosovo since visa liberalization began on January 1, 2024.

Context: The list includes Kosovo, Bangladesh, Colombia, Egypt, India, Morocco, and Tunisia. EU Commissioner for Migration Magnus Brunner said the proposal responds to growing case backlogs.

“Many member states are facing a high number of unprocessed asylum applications, so everything we can do now to support faster decision-making is essential,” Brunner said.

The proposal still requires approval from the European Parliament and Council. Under the plan, asylum claims from listed countries may face quicker rejection and deportation orders.

Kosovo migration trends: Kosovo asylum claims have spiked in 2024, reaching levels not seen since the 2015–2016 migration wave. France has been the top destination since 2018, overtaking Germany.

Political backdrop: The move reflects EU efforts to curb illegal migration amid growing far-right influence. Countries like Sweden, Italy, Denmark, and the Netherlands have pushed for tougher deportation rules. A recent EU reform allows member states to create return centers outside EU borders. Currently, only about 20% of migrants ordered to leave the EU are actually returned.