The European Union has intensified its efforts against illegal migration by implementing stricter asylum rules, facilitating deportations of irregular migrants, and imposing sanctions on smugglers. Recent agreements among EU countries aim to speed up asylum procedures and increase returns, reflecting a shift towards more stringent policies. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a new sanctions regime targeting smugglers, aiming to freeze their assets and restrict their movements. Additionally, the EU is pursuing legislative changes to create 'return hubs' in non-EU countries for rejected asylum seekers, raising concerns about the safety and rights of migrants.