Meloni and Frederiksen push returns, third-country hubs and stronger enforcement while demanding respect for European laws and values
ROME: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Monday called for tougher European policies against uncontrolled immigration, arguing that governments must strengthen border enforcement and accelerate the removal of foreign nationals without legal grounds to remain.
In a joint Instagram message, the two leaders said Italy and Denmark had pursued strict immigration policies domestically and at the European level.
They argued that irregular immigration had increased pressure on public services, contributed to security concerns and weakened public confidence in governments’ ability to manage migration.
Consequently, they said European citizens expected political leaders to deliver practical solutions while protecting communities.
Leaders Push Returns and Third-Country Hubs
Meloni and Frederiksen said European governments should remain committed to measures aimed at strengthening migration controls.
They pointed to changes in the debate surrounding the European Convention on Human Rights and argued that authorities should now expel more foreign nationals convicted of crimes.
Furthermore, the leaders called for establishing migrant return hubs in third countries and developing additional solutions outside Europe. Both governments have previously advocated arrangements that would allow European countries to process or facilitate returns beyond EU territory.
They also stressed that newcomers should respect national laws and European values.
Italy Calls for Stronger EU Borders
Meanwhile, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called for greater protection of Europe’s external borders through stronger support for EU border agency Frontex.
He also urged authorities to intensify operations against criminal trafficking networks and establish repatriation hubs in Africa.
Referring to migration pressures affecting Ceuta, Tajani argued that individual European countries should not make unilateral decisions that shift migration consequences onto neighbouring states.
Instead, he said European governments must manage immigration collectively.
Meloni and Frederiksen also emphasised Europe’s Christian cultural heritage, saying people choosing to settle in European countries should respect local values rather than seek to impose practices that conflict with them.
