EU Commission poised to propose migrant ‘return hubs’ in legislation
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The European Commission is exploring a new EU law on migrant returns, with several countries pushing for tougher measures.
According to leaked meeting minutes reported by Euronews, the Commission plans to propose ‘return hubs’ outside the EU to expedite deportations of rejected asylum seekers. The idea was discussed at an informal home affairs meeting in Warsaw on 30 January, where migration commissioner Magnus Brunner outlined possible reforms.
The meeting, hosted by Poland under its EU Council presidency, focused heavily on return policies.
When approached, a Commission spokesperson declined to comment on the leaked details.
The European Commission is expected to publish its proposal to accelerate migrant returns by the end of the month, initiating the legislative process.
During the meeting, Brunner suggested “stronger rules on detention” and the creation of “return hubs,” according to the minutes. These hubs, located outside the EU, would temporarily house individuals whose asylum applications have been rejected before their return to their home countries.
The proposal was welcomed by Austria, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Italy, Latvia, and Malta, who saw it as a potential deterrent to irregular migration.
