In a significant hardening of European migration policy, Greece has joined forces with four other EU member states to establish deportation facilities in third countries, with African nations emerging as the preferred location. Greek Migration Minister Thanos Plevris confirmed the collaborative effort with Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, and Denmark during a national television broadcast on Wednesday.
The initiative, described as moving from theoretical discussion to practical implementation, aims to create ‘return hubs’ for migrants whose asylum claims have been denied and whose countries of origin refuse repatriation. Minister Plevris revealed that technical teams from the five nations will convene next week to advance the plan, following preliminary ministerial discussions. While emphasizing the African continent as the preferred location, Plevris noted this selection remains ‘not binding’ and indicated that larger European partners are leading negotiations with potential host countries.
The proposed centers would serve dual purposes: processing individuals ineligible for asylum while simultaneously functioning as a deterrent to prospective migrants with weak protection claims. Although the minister projected an initial framework within months, specific operational timelines remain undetermined.
This development occurs against the backdrop of Greece’s strategic position as a primary EU entry point for those fleeing conflict and poverty across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Tens of thousands undertake perilous sea journeys annually, either from Turkey to nearby Aegean islands or via the longer Mediterranean route from North Africa to southern Greek islands.
Athens has increasingly adopted stringent migration measures, despite allegations from human rights organizations regarding illegal pushback operations—claims the government vehemently denies. Minister Plevris cited a 21% reduction in illegal arrivals for 2025 compared to 2024, representing 13,000 fewer migrants, alongside a 40% decrease over the past five months.
The European context further solidified last week when EU lawmakers approved new immigration policies permitting member states to deny asylum and deport migrants originating from designated safe countries or those who could seek protection in nations outside the bloc.
With Greece currently processing 5,000-7,000 annual returns against 40,000-50,000 new arrivals—approximately half resulting in rejected applications—Plevris acknowledged existing repatriation rates as insufficient. The minister will travel to Rome next week for trilateral discussions with Italian and Spanish counterparts, including a scheduled meeting with Pakistani officials to enhance cooperation with countries of origin.