Key facts
- Greece's parliament approved legislation to speed up the deportation of rejected asylum seekers.
- The new law enables the transfer of migrants to 'return hubs' in third countries.
- These hubs are intended to become operational by 2027.
- Greece is collaborating with several EU nations on establishing these hubs.
Greece's parliament has passed legislation aimed at accelerating the deportation process for individuals whose asylum claims have been rejected. The new law also paves the way for transferring these migrants to 'return hubs' located in third countries, contingent upon the finalization of bilateral agreements. This move comes as Greece, a primary entry point for migrants into Europe, has seen a recent increase in arrivals on its southern islands. The legislation aligns with broader European Union efforts to manage migration, as EU lawmakers recently agreed on new rules allowing countries to send migrants ordered to leave the bloc to centers in third countries. Greece is working with the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, and Austria to establish joint return and transit hubs, with an operational target of 2027. Greek Migration Minister Thanos Plevris indicated that consultations are underway with two African nations, though they remain unnamed. Talks with Uganda for a similar arrangement have been put on hold.