Key facts
- Several EU countries are considering migrant return hubs.
- Potential locations for these hubs include Rwanda and Uzbekistan.
- The hubs would process rejected asylum seekers.
- This initiative is supported by a new EU law.
- The aim is to shift migration control beyond EU borders.
- Potential agreements are being eyed for 2026.
- Operational status for the hubs is targeted for 2027.
Several European Union member states are actively exploring the establishment of migrant return hubs in countries like Rwanda and Uzbekistan. This initiative is designed to process asylum seekers whose applications have been rejected, with the aim of facilitating their return to their countries of origin or safe third countries. The strategy is a component of a new EU law that seeks to extend migration control beyond the bloc's geographical borders.
Discussions are underway to potentially finalize agreements with these third countries by 2026. If successful, these return hubs could become operational as early as 2027. The move represents a significant shift in the EU's approach to migration management, focusing on externalizing processing and return mechanisms.