The European Union has urged Turkey to investigate allegations of abuse against migrants in EU-funded centers, as well as instances of forced deportation to Afghanistan and Syria. This call follows a comprehensive investigation by Lighthouse Reports in collaboration with media outlets such as Der Spiegel, Le Monde, and Politico, which revealed serious accusations against Turkish officials regarding violations in detention centers.
Since 2012, the EU has provided nearly €10 billion ($11 billion) to Turkey to support the country in managing migration, with an additional €1 billion promised this year. The controversial 2016 agreement between Ankara and Brussels aimed to curb irregular migration into Europe by offering financial aid in exchange for the return of migrants.
Human rights organizations have consistently criticized the EU's approach to migration, arguing that outsourcing migration management does not absolve the EU of its responsibilities. The upcoming European Council summit in Brussels is expected to focus heavily on migration issues, with discussions on controversial plans for creating return centers outside the EU, similar to a scheme proposed by Italy in collaboration with Albania.