EU accused of funding abusive deportation system in Turkey
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – An investigation published on Friday revealed that the European Union has funneled hundreds of millions of euros into a controversial deportation system in Turkey, where Syrian and Afghan refugees face abuse, torture, and forced deportations.
The investigation, conducted by Lighthouse Reports and multiple media partners, shows how EU funds have supported detention centers that hold refugees in inhumane conditions before they are deported to unsafe regions.
Over €213 million in EU funds have been allocated to build and maintain removal centers in Turkey, despite documented evidence of abuse.
Refugees are often coerced into signing “voluntary return” documents and are returned to dangerous areas, including Syria and Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
Despite concerns raised by EU officials and diplomats about the abuses, the EU continues to support the system, effectively outsourcing its refugee crisis to Turkey.