Greece and Germany Propose Return Hubs for Irregular Migrants in Africa

Greece and Germany are collaborating on a new initiative aimed at establishing "return hubs" in Africa for irregular migrants who cannot be repatriated to their countries of origin. This plan, announced by Greece's Migration and Asylum Minister Thanos Plevris, seeks to deter illegal migration by making the prospect of reaching Europe less appealing. The proposed centers would operate outside the European Union and focus on individuals whose asylum claims have failed.

Greece and Germany Mull Return Hubs in Africa for Irregular MigrantsPolitico EuropeGreece and Germany in talks to build migrant return hubs in Africa

The initiative discusses two potential models for the return hubs:

Greece and Germany Mull Return Hubs in Africa for Irregular Migrants

1. Safe Countries: Centers located in secure African nations that would accept returnees, operating under EU scrutiny and offering reciprocal benefits to host countries.

Greece and Germany Mull Return Hubs in Africa for Irregular Migrants

2. Unsafe Countries: Facilities in transit countries, such as Libya, designed to hold migrants temporarily.

Greece and Germany Mull Return Hubs in Africa for Irregular Migrants

Plevris emphasized that the primary goal of these centers is deterrence, stating, “If these centers are outside the European continent, they act as a deterrent.”

Greece and Germany in talks to build migrant return hubs in Africa

During a recent interview, Plevris highlighted a significant decrease in migrant arrivals in Greece, attributing a 45-50% reduction in numbers to new policy measures and improved cooperation with Turkey. He noted that arrivals during the months of August to November dropped from approximately 23,000 in 2024 to around 12,000 in 2025. Current return numbers for migrants stand at 5,000-6,000 annually, with plans to increase this figure to further reduce the migrant population in Greece.

Greece and Germany Mull Return Hubs in Africa for Irregular Migrants

Plevris confirmed that discussions regarding the return hubs are not being conducted under the auspices of the European Union but are instead led by individual member states. He expressed confidence that legal issues surrounding the processing of migrants in third countries would be resolved. An official from the German interior ministry noted that the two countries are working on the necessary legal framework for the return regulation.

Greece and Germany in talks to build migrant return hubs in Africa

The initiative has faced scrutiny regarding its legality and ethical implications. Critics argue that processing migrants in third countries may not align with EU law. Additionally, there are concerns about the adequacy of conditions in potential host countries and the overall effectiveness of such deterrent measures.

Greece and Germany in talks to build migrant return hubs in Africa

• “If these centers are outside the European continent, they act as a deterrent.” — Thanos Plevris, Greece’s Migration Minister

Greece and Germany Mull Return Hubs in Africa for Irregular Migrants

• “During their meeting on November 4, the two ministers identified a shared interest in so-called ‘innovative solutions’ for reducing illegal migration and also discussed the possibility of implementing these in a group of member states. They are currently working together at the European level on the necessary legal basis for the return regulation.” — German Interior Ministry Official

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As discussions continue, Greece and Germany aim to finalize the legal framework for the return hubs. The initiative's success will depend on securing agreements with African nations and addressing the legal and ethical concerns raised by critics.

Greece and Germany in talks to build migrant return hubs in Africa