EU Secures Landmark Migration Deal, Tightens Rules to Cut Numbers

European Union leaders have reached a major breakthrough in talks on new rules to control migration, with the aim of addressing the challenges posed by migrant arrivals. The agreement, known as the Pact on Asylum and Migration, has been hailed as a historic day by EU lawmakers. However, critics argue that the reforms will weaken the rights of asylum-seekers and encourage morally dubious deals with countries that people leave to reach Europe. Rights groups warn that the agreement will lead to more detention, including of children and families, and will shift asylum responsibility to non-EU countries, potentially exposing migrants to human rights violations.