BRUSSELS, July 9 (Reuters): The European Union proposed on Thursday a new sanctions framework targeting ​migrant smuggling, human trafficking, and other forms of organised crime, which would impose asset freezes and travel bans on offenders.

"We ​all have a common goal. To ​drive them out of business. And ⁠to save the lives of thousands ​of people who dream of a better ​life," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a statement, referencing the crackdown on ​migrant smugglers and traffickers.

"We in Europe ​must be the ones to decide who comes ⁠us and in what circumstances."

The proposal requires unanimous approval by the European Council before it can be implemented.

The announcement comes ​amid tough ​debates ⁠around migration policy in the EU.

Last month, the European Parliament approved ​a migration overhaul aimed at streamlining ​deportations ⁠and permitting offshore detention centres. The measure has drawn criticism from countries like ⁠France ​and Spain, with critics ​arguing it is overly harsh and undermines asylum protections.

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