Greece is working with several European partners to establish “return hubs” in non-EU countries where rejected asylum seekers could be sent, as governments move to tighten migration policies across the region. The initiative is being coordinated with Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, and Denmark, reflecting growing efforts to improve deportation systems within Europe’s evolving migration framework.
Greek Migration Minister Thanos Plevris said the countries are discussing practical steps to create the facilities, which would likely be located in willing non-EU states, “preferably in Africa,” though no final location has been agreed. Officials have already held meetings, and technical teams are expected to continue discussions in the coming weeks to move the proposal forward.
The plan forms part of broader changes linked to the European Union Migration and Asylum Pact, which aims to streamline asylum procedures and increase returns of people who do not qualify for protection. Governments across the bloc face political pressure to address irregular migration and low deportation rates, prompting interest in new mechanisms such as third-country processing or return arrangements.
Under the proposal, migrants whose asylum claims have been rejected — especially those whose home countries refuse to readmit them — could be transferred to these hubs while awaiting return or further processing. Greek officials argue that the existence of such centres could deter irregular migration by signalling that unsuccessful applicants will not remain in Europe indefinitely.
Return rates remain a major challenge for Greece, which records tens of thousands of arrivals each year but carries out far fewer deportations. Authorities say improving returns is essential to managing migration flows, particularly given the country’s position on Europe’s southeastern border, where many migrants arrive by sea after crossing from Turkey or North Africa.
The idea of external return centres is not entirely new. Similar arrangements have been debated or tested elsewhere, including Italy’s agreement with Albania to process migrants outside EU territory. However, the concept remains controversial and raises legal and ethical questions about how migrants’ rights will be protected.
Human rights organisations have warned that any system transferring people to third countries must comply with international refugee law, including safeguards against refoulement — the principle that people should not be returned to places where they may face harm. Critics argue that outsourcing returns risks, weakening protections, and creating accountability gaps.
Greek officials say irregular arrivals declined in 2025 compared with the previous year, which they attribute partly to stricter enforcement measures. The government has also faced allegations from rights groups regarding pushbacks at sea, claims it strongly denies, insisting its actions comply with national and international law.
Discussions are expected to continue in the coming months, including talks with other European governments and countries of origin to strengthen cooperation on returns. While no timeline has been confirmed, the proposal signals a shift toward more externalised migration management in Europe, with Greece positioning itself at the forefront of the debate.