Five European Countries Plan Joint Scheme to Transfer Rejected Asylum Seekers to Third Countries

Five European Countries Plan Joint Scheme to Transfer Rejected Asylum Seekers to Third Countries
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Greece, Germany, Austria, Denmark and the Netherlands have agreed on a framework to establish “return hubs” that could transfer rejected asylum seekers to safe third countries outside the European Union when deportation to their countries of origin is not possible.

Greek Migration Minister Thanos Plevris said Athens expects to launch a pilot project in the first half of next year, with potential centers particularly in Africa. No destination has been finalized, although Rwanda has been mentioned as a possible partner.

The proposed scheme is part of broader European efforts to increase returns and curb irregular migration. EU rules require partner countries to respect international human rights standards and the principle of non-refoulement.

The plans could face legal, human rights, administrative and financial challenges. Similar efforts have previously drawn court scrutiny, including Britain’s former plan to transfer asylum seekers to Rwanda.