22nd June 2026
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker TĂĽrk expressed his deeply regret for the adoption of a new European Union return regulation allowing speedy deportations of migrants and asylum-seekers from the 27-member bloc.
The UN High Commissioner called on the EU and its Member States to exercise due diligence and ensure that the implementation of this regulation is fully consistent with international human rights and refugee law.
The EU Regulation on Returns, which was voted on by the European Parliament on 17th June, expands the use of pre-removal detention and enables EU members to create so-called «return hubs» in third countries.
«International human rights law and refugee law are very clear: no one should be returned to a place where they would be at risk of serious human rights violations or other irreparable harm. This is the fundamental principle of non-refoulement. It must be fully respected by all countries and all territories under all circumstances.»
«Deportation decisions must always be based on individualized assessments and should not be carried out prior to conclusion of appeal processes,» Türk said.
«Connection e.V.», reiterates the vital need to ensure protection for those who object war and are forced to leave their own country and seek asylum abroad because their life is at risk in their home country.
«We call on Member States to grant asylum to conscientious objectors to military service and human rights defenders who seek protection abroad, in line with UNHCR Guidelines on International Protection N. 10.»
The #ObjectWarCampaign, launched in 2022, calls for instance on Member States and EU institutions to protect conscientious objectors and deserters from Russia, Belarus and Ukraine.
It is with deep dismay that we report the news of new deportations of individuals who oppose the war. On June 16th we have been notified that Lithuania deported back to Russia a deserter and conscientious objectors who has been living in Lithuania and actively engaging in the local community. Read more: «Lithuania Deported a Russian Deserter after Six Months of Continuous Detention»
Read more about the EU agreement: «Commission Welcomes Political Agreement on the Return Regulation»
Read more about the new EU regulation: «EU Parliament Approves ‘Strictest-ever’ Migration Law» and «EU Lawmakers Back Stricter Deportation Rules in Migration Overhaul»
Read the full statement of the High Commissioner: «UN Human Rights Chief Concerned About New EU Returns Law, Urges Consistency With Human Rights and Refugee Law»
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