Greece and EU Core Group advance non-EU Return Hubs plan

Greece and four other European nations are advancing plans to establish ‘Return Hubs’ in non-EU countries. These facilities are intended to host and process migrants who do not have a legal right to remain in the European Union and are subject to deportation orders.

The initiative is being led by a ‘Core Group’ consisting of Greece, Denmark, Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands. Following a meeting in Copenhagen where a roadmap for legal requirements and national timelines was agreed upon, technical consultations with potential third-country partners have commenced.

Key upcoming milestones include the ‘2nd Munich Migration Meeting’ on September 26, involving 17 European ministers, where the Core Group is expected to coordinate next steps. Additionally, a meeting is scheduled for October 1 during the EU Council of Internal Affairs to discuss implementation with international organizations. While discussions are ongoing, no specific third country has been officially announced as a partner for these hubs.