Shifting Attitudes: Europe Embraces Tougher Immigration Policies

A growing consensus across Europe, from right-wing to centrist parties, is evident as leaders work to tighten immigration policies, reflecting a significant ideological shift that parallels trends seen in the United States.

Amid rising political support for stringent immigration measures, Europe is experiencing a transformative phase in its approach to undocumented migrants. Once scorned for their hard-line views, members of the Brothers of Italy party, including European Parliament member Nicola Procaccini, are now finding their policies embraced by the mainstream. With Giorgia Meloni at the helm as Italy’s Prime Minister, the party's influence has expanded significantly.

This shift is not limited to the far-right, as both conservative and centrist leaders across the European Union rally behind tougher immigration policies. Unlike the tumultuous response seen in the U.S. during the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, Europe’s realignment appears to be more deliberate and less chaotic, signaling an entrenchment of these new viewpoints.

Countries are declaring bold policy initiatives, with Denmark's strict 'zero' refugee strategy setting a standard for others to follow. Efforts are underway within the EU to enhance deportation processes, including proposals to transfer asylum seekers to non-member countries. Notably, recent agreements have led to the deployment of European agents in Bosnia and Herzegovina to strengthen border enforcement.

Despite a spike in irregular border crossings post-pandemic, recent data shows a decline, suggesting that the combination of stricter policies and enforcement may be having an impact. As the narrative surrounding immigration continues to evolve, it is clear that Europe is taking a firmer stance on this contentious issue, driven by both public sentiment and political strategy.