In an attempt to sound out all interested parties on...

In an attempt to sound out all interested parties on an EU return policy for illegal residents, the European Commission published a Green Paper [a government document that proposes and invites discussion on approaches to a problem] on the subject. While the Commission is proceeding cautiously, it is clear from the Green Paper that the executive wants more readmission agreements with third countries, and common standards and procedures. The Commission has asked to receive all contributions by July 31.
Any return policy will have to be consistent with the EU's principles on asylum, the Commission said. For example, the 1951 Geneva Convention insists that no one should be sent back to a country where they might face persecution (the non-refoulement principle). The European Charter of Fundamental Rights is more explicit, banning the removal of anyone who could be subjected to the death penalty, torture or other inhumane treatment. Recognised refugees can only be expelled for national security or public order reasons, according to the Geneva Convention.