EU countries eye setting up migrant return hubs in Rwanda and Uzbekistan
A group of EU countries is considering sending rejected asylum seekers to Rwanda and Uzbekistan, following the approval of a law that allows offshore return hubs, marking a new step in outsourcing migration control.
Three European diplomats have confirmed that several EU member states are exploring the possibility of establishing return hubs for rejected asylum seekers in Rwanda and Uzbekistan. This move represents the bloc's first attempt to shift part of its migrant return system beyond its borders.
The plans come after the approval of a law granting EU capitals the authority to set up centers in non-EU countries for individuals who have been denied the right to stay in the bloc, provided those countries uphold human rights and international law.
Over half of the EU's 27 member countries have called for swift action, according to a letter seen by POLITICO. Denmark, Austria, Greece, Germany, and the Netherlands are leading the push. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stated that the goal is to conclude agreements in 2026 so that the centers become operational from 2027.
The host countries have not yet been finalized, and the political and diplomatic process is still ongoing, according to two other European diplomats. Previous attempts by European governments to outsource migration management—such as Britain's abandoned Rwanda plan and Italy's contested Albania centers—have faced legal and political challenges. Supporters argue that the new EU rules provide a clear legal framework that could overcome past obstacles.
While Rwanda and Uzbekistan are being considered, individual member states would negotiate their own agreements. The European Commission has not been part of the selection talks, and it along with other capitals must be informed before the hubs start operating. The EU has already invested heavily in these countries, with €900 million committed to Rwanda and €119 million in grants to Uzbekistan. Uganda is also being discussed behind closed doors, while Egypt and Libya have been ruled out due to concerns about human smuggling.
Cyprus' Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannides said the general idea is to set up centers likely in Africa or Asia, but not near European borders. He emphasized that human rights protection will be a yardstick, and the EU wants international organizations like the IOM and UNHCR to help ensure compliance.
However, the plan faces criticism. Jean-Nicolas Beuze, UNHCR's representative in Brussels, warned that refugees risk irreparable harm. France and Spain have challenged the scheme, with French President Emmanuel Macron noting he has never seen a return center that actually works. Greens MEP Mélissa Camara said the hubs breach EU core values of dignity and fundamental rights.
Under the new rules, which were passed in the European Parliament, return hubs would house people who have exhausted all legal avenues to stay in the EU and are awaiting deportation. This differs from earlier plans that focused on asylum seekers or newly arrived migrants.
