Greece proposes African migrant return hubs amid rising arrivals

Greece is advocating for the establishment of migrant return hubs in Africa to manage increasing migration flows. Greek Minister of Migration and Asylum, Thanos Plevris, stated that the government aims to sign its first agreement with an African nation following the Christmas period. This initiative, which is projected for implementation by 2027, aligns with efforts by Greece, the Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, and Germany to create return centers for individuals whose asylum requests have been rejected.

In addition to these hubs, Greece has proposed an extraordinary European mechanism to manage mass migration pressure. This mechanism could include temporary suspensions of asylum procedures and enhanced border controls for up to 30 days during crisis situations. The proposal has reportedly gained support from several countries and is being reviewed by the European Commission.

The push for new policies comes amid rising arrival numbers. In Crete alone, approximately 17,000 migrants have arrived since the beginning of the year, with nearly 150 people reaching the island in a single 24-hour period via small boats from North Africa. Total arrivals in Greece are approaching 30,000 for the year, with significant activity noted on the migration route between Libya and Crete.