De Wever joins European frontrunners for stricter migration policy

Prime Minister Bart De Wever has participated for the first time in a high-level meeting of European member states advocating for tighter EU migration rules and more effective return measures. This coalition of migration-realistic countries was initiated by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.

Stronger influence at the European level

A total of thirteen countries took part in the discussions, including Hungary and Austria. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also attended. The group aims to exert greater influence over EU decision-making on asylum and migration, as many key policies are set at the European level.

Tougher return policies

A key priority is strengthening the enforcement of return policies for individuals without valid residency permits. The European Commission recently proposed the establishment of return centers outside the EU, where deported migrants could be temporarily housed while awaiting repatriation. The participating countries are pushing for a stricter version of this plan and want it approved by the European Parliament as soon as possible.

A decisive migration policy

Under previous governments, Belgium played no role in such discussions and was not invited to participate. Prime Minister De Wever’s presence in this leading group marks a clear shift in Belgium’s migration stance. The De Wever government is committed to implementing the strictest migration policy in Belgian history. By aligning with like-minded nations, Belgium takes a significant step toward a firmer and more pragmatic migration strategy.