EU nations discuss controversial return centers outside Europe, potentially in Africa, despite human rights concerns and past failures.
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A recent announcement by the Ministry of Migration and Asylum regarding a closed working meeting of European countries, including Greece, aimed at promoting a controversial plan to establish return centers for refugees and migrants in non-EU countries, likely in Africa, though the announcement avoided specific geographical references. Previously, Minister Thanos Pleurys explicitly stated that the goal was to create a return center in Sub-Saharan Africa, citing the belief among several EU nations that this would deter irregular migration by ensuring those who cannot be returned home are sent to an African return hub. The recent meeting, held near an informal summit in Nicosia with participation from Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Greece, agreed to start discussions on exploring the possibility of creating such centers in a third country outside Europe, aligning with new migration agreements. These “return hubs” are seen as a final European idea for mass deportations when return to the country of origin is impossible or unsafe. The plan is highly controversial, citing past failures like the UK’s failed Rwanda asylum center and Italy’s underutilized centers in Albania. Human rights organizations warn of risks to rights and abuse. Despite these warnings, Germany initiated this concept with cooperation from countries including Greece, and Pleurys previously suggested applying a model similar to Italy’s efforts but targeting Africa for greater deterrence. Austria has been involved in discussions regarding return centers, reportedly focusing on Uganda as a potential partner, while the Netherlands also announced plans for a “transit center” with Uganda. The lack of specific mention of Uganda or Africa in the latest announcement suggests that these controversial asylum proposals still have much work to do before becoming concrete.
