Macron rejects EU funding for migrant return hubs in third countries

French President Emmanuel Macron said France will not support the creation of "return hubs" for migrants in third countries financed with EU budget funds. Speaking at the EU summit in Brussels on 19 June 2026, Macron questioned the effectiveness of the centres, stating, “I have never seen a return centre in a third country that actually works,” and warned that the plan “does not align with the fundamental principles on which our Europe was built.” He stressed that France backs stricter return rules but draws a red line at external deportation camps, citing concerns over human‑rights standards and financial waste.

The proposal, approved by the European Parliament as part of a new migration overhaul, is backed by 19 EU member states and envisions offshore detention facilities in countries such as Albania. Spain’s Pedro Sánchez also voiced opposition, calling the scheme “ineffective” and a “waste of resources.” Macron’s opposition may complicate EU financing under the Global Europe foreign‑policy fund and fuel further debate over the bloc’s migration strategy.