Greece working with other European countries to set up migrant deportation hubs outside EU. Here’s the latest on the plan.

Greece working with other European countries to set up migrant deportation hubs outside EU. Here’s the latest on the plan

Greece, alongside Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, and Denmark, is developing deportation centers in non-EU nations, particularly in Africa, for individuals whose asylum applications are denied. The migration minister, Thanos Plevris, revealed this during a broadcast on Greek state television, emphasizing that the initiative aims to create so-called return hubs, ideally situated in African countries.

Ministers from the five nations have already convened to explore the strategy, with technical teams set to discuss the matter next week. Plevris highlighted that the collaboration has moved beyond theoretical discussions to practical implementation. He did not name specific countries for hosting these hubs, stating the preference for Africa was not a fixed decision.

“We are not speaking theoretically any more; we are speaking practically,” Plevris remarked, underscoring the shift toward actionable measures. He noted that the hubs would serve those whose home countries refuse to accept them back, acting as a deterrent for prospective migrants.

The initiative is part of Greece’s broader effort to manage migration flows, which have long made the nation a key gateway for people escaping conflict and hardship in regions like the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Tens of thousands arrive annually, primarily through perilous sea routes from Turkey to Aegean islands or via a longer Mediterranean journey from North Africa to southern Greek islands such as Gavdos and Crete.

Recent data shows a 21% drop in unauthorized arrivals in 2025 compared to 2024, equivalent to 13,000 fewer people. Over the past five months, the decline has reached 40%. Plevris stressed that the current return rate, around 5,000 to 7,000 annually, remains insufficient for the 40,000 to 50,000 new arrivals each year whose applications are rejected.

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Last week, European lawmakers approved new immigration rules enabling nations to deny asylum and deport migrants from countries deemed safe or who could apply elsewhere. Plevris stated Greece is now prioritizing returns for those whose asylum claims are rejected. He also mentioned plans to visit Rome, where he will meet with Italian and Spanish officials, as well as a representative from Pakistan, to strengthen partnerships for migrant repatriation.