WARSAW, POLAND / RankWire.AI / – Frontex aided over 33,000 repatriations from EU member states to countries outside the EU during the first half of 2026. This number increased from approximately 30,000 in the same timeframe last year. About 21,000 individuals returned voluntarily, compared to roughly 19,000 in the previous year. According to agency data released on Sept. 7, the total number of Frontex-supported returns since 2022 now reaches around 215,000 people.
The European Border and Coast Guard Agency assists national authorities once an enforceable return order is issued. This order is granted after all legal options to stay in the EU are exhausted. It is then up to the national authorities to determine whether the return is voluntary or forced. In voluntary cases, individuals comply with the decision, whereas forced returns occur when individuals do not fulfill their obligation to leave. The agency provides support for both types of return processes.
Germany, France, Cyprus, Belgium, and Sweden reported the highest numbers of agency-supported returns from January to June. The primary nationalities among those returned were from Türkiye, Syria, Georgia, Colombia, India, Brazil, Albania, Morocco, Nigeria, and Iraq. During this period, Frontex deployed 109 Return Specialists across 15 member states. Additionally, 118 Return Escort and Support Officers operated in 11 member states to facilitate travel arrangements, airport procedures, and flight logistics.
Voluntary return cases constitute the majority
In the first six months of 2026, nearly 14,000 individuals registered for EU reintegration support, a rise from about 8,000 registrations during the same period in 2025. Over 80% of participants returned voluntarily. Reintegration services may include vocational training, counseling, and grants to support small businesses once individuals return to their home countries. Member states may also include other eligible returnees in the program.
Return specialists assist national authorities with case management, explaining available support options, and securing identity documents from countries of origin. Some returnees are accompanied by escort and support officers, who handle logistical and administrative tasks related to departures. Hans Leijtens, Frontex Executive Director, emphasized that operations must adhere to legal standards while ensuring safety and dignity. He also underscored the agency’s focus on voluntary return and reintegration assistance, noting that voluntary processes can lessen staffing needs and logistical complexities associated with forced removals.
Legislative Developments in EU Return Policies Underway
European Union negotiators reached a provisional agreement on unified return rules on June 1. The European Parliament approved its first reading on June 17 with 418 votes in favor, 218 against, and 30 abstentions. This framework addresses third-country nationals lacking legal residency rights within member states, establishing cooperation duties and creating a European Return Order to facilitate recognition of return decisions across the EU.
The proposed legislation allows for return hubs outside the EU under arrangements that respect international law and human rights standards, though unaccompanied minors are excluded from such arrangements. It also includes specific provisions for individuals deemed security threats, while maintaining the voluntary recognition of return decisions for the time being. The 2026 data reflect an increase in EU return operations compared to the previous year, with voluntary returns still comprising the majority of cases supported by Frontex.