Brussels – The EU plan to deport migrants risks leading to enforcement measures similar to those of ICE, the US federal agency responsible for customs and immigration control. This is the alarm raised by 88 human rights organisations in a joint statement emphasising that, according to the new rules on repatriation, member states would be obliged to “identify” undocumented persons, transforming everyday spaces, public services, and even private homes into ICE-style immigration control tools.
In practice, according to the joint statement released by the international non-governmental organisation Picum, the identification measures proposed by the European executive in March 2025 would be numerous and already partially implemented in several Member States. These include police raids on private homes, which would allow authorities to enter migrants’ homes in search of documents, even without a court order. But also checks in public places: in Belgium, for example, checkpoints have been introduced on motorways, at stations, and at airports.
The document also mentions the mass collection of personal data and the exchange of information between police forces in the European Union, along with the use of biometric identification systems to track people’s movements and strengthen control over undocumented migrants and victims of racism. Other tools mentioned include reporting obligations for public authorities and racial profiling practices, as well as checks based on appearance, language, or perceived origin rather than individual behaviour, which, according to the signatory organisations, would fuel discrimination that is already widespread in Europe.
These are “real and immediate threats.” The issue of migration continues to occupy a central place in European political debate. Last week, in a plenary session at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, MEPs voted to give final approval to the first EU list of safe countries of origin and the revision of the criteria for designating safe third countries. The regulation on returns – which establishes the controversial return hubs – was already approved in December by the capitals in the EU Council, but is still under discussion in the European Parliament.
According to migrant rights organisations, the new measures risk fuelling “fear, discrimination, and persecution,” as well as undermining social ties and community cohesion. The repercussions, they warn, could affect fundamental aspects of people’s lives: from access to essential healthcare, including pregnancy-related care, treatment for chronic diseases, and vaccinations, education, and social services.
Concerns also extend to the international level. On 26 January, sixteen special rapporteurs, independent experts, and United Nations working groups sent a joint letter to the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the Council of the EU. The document warns that the proposed regulation on returns could introduce reporting obligations for professionals, discouraging access to essential services, and jeopardising the protection of fundamental rights.
An approach that, according to some observers, would be reminiscent of the ICE’s handling of migrants in the United States. “The result could be a series of ICE-style raids on private homes, public spaces, and workplaces,” said Michele LeVoy, director of Picum. “We cannot be outraged by ICE’s actions in the United States and at the same time support similar practices in Europe.”
