On 10 February 2026, the European Parliament adopted major amendments to the Asylum Procedure Regulation, introducing new rules that could significantly affect how asylum applications are processed across the European Union. The changes include the creation of an EU-wide list of “safe countries of origin” and revisions to the “safe third country” concept, which may allow faster rejection of some asylum claims.

These developments have sparked strong reactions from human rights organisations, who warn that the reforms could weaken refugee protections and limit fair access to asylum procedures.

EU Introduces Common List of “Safe Countries of Origin”

One of the key changes is the introduction of a unified EU list of “safe countries of origin” (SCOs). This list includes:

• Bangladesh

• Colombia

• Egypt

• India

• Kosovo

• Morocco

• Tunisia

• Most EU candidate countries

Applicants from these countries may face faster asylum decisions, as authorities may presume their countries are generally safe. This could make it harder for individuals to prove their need for protection.

The new EU-wide list aims to standardise asylum procedures across member states and reduce processing times.

Changes to “Safe Third Country” Rules May Expand Application Rejections

The amendments also revise the “safe third country” (STC) concept. Under this rule, EU countries may reject asylum applications if the applicant passed through or could seek protection in another country considered safe.

The revised regulation expands the conditions under which applications can be declared inadmissible, potentially increasing the number of rejected asylum claims without a full examination of their merits.

This change is intended to streamline asylum systems and reduce pressure on EU asylum services.

Human Rights Groups Warn of Risks to Refugee Protection

Several human rights organisations have raised serious concerns about the impact of these reforms.

Amnesty International warned that the changes could allow asylum claims to be rejected without proper individual assessment, which may weaken refugee protection standards.

Human Rights Watch also expressed concern, stating that the new rules could undermine fair asylum procedures and reduce access to protection for vulnerable individuals.

Other organisations, including members of the European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE), have cautioned that these changes may affect fundamental rights and human dignity for people seeking asylum.

Potential Impact on Asylum Seekers in Europe

The new regulations may have several consequences:

• Faster asylum processing for applicants from listed countries

• Increased rejection rates based on country classification

• Reduced access to full asylum hearings in some cases

• Greater authority for EU member states to refuse applications

Supporters argue the reforms will improve efficiency, while critics fear they could limit access to protection.

Ongoing Debate Over EU Migration and Asylum Policies

The adoption of these amendments reflects ongoing efforts by the EU to reform its migration and asylum system. European authorities aim to balance border control, efficient processing, and humanitarian protection.

However, the changes have intensified debate among policymakers, humanitarian organisations, and legal experts about the future of asylum rights in Europe.

The full impact of these reforms will become clearer as EU member states begin implementing the updated rules.