Migration Policy: Greece Eyes Active Role in Africa-Based Return Hubs – Strategic Shift Underway

Greece is aiming to take a leading role in the creation and operation of so-called return hubs, migrant detention and return centers outside the European continent, emphasized Migration and Asylum Minister Thanos Plevris during his bilateral meeting with German counterpart Alexander Dobrindt.

The Greek government intends not only to participate but also to lead in shaping ideas for the European Commission’s proposal to establish return hubs in third countries, hosting individuals whose asylum applications have been rejected, thus facilitating deportations.

New Strategic Dimension Beyond Europe

According to ministry officials, discussions now extend beyond Europe, with potential locations in African countries, including Libya, and elsewhere. The Italian return centers in Albania are cited as a precedent for similar Greek initiatives.

Minister Plevris stressed that Greece is not only enforcing laws but also asserting diplomatic influence, actively engaging in European negotiations for the New Pact on Migration and Asylum and the Return Regulation.

Objectives and Results

The talks focused on practical measures to reduce illegal flows, strengthen external borders, and boost deportations. Plevris referenced Germany’s efforts for returns to Afghanistan and Syria, while also highlighting the internal EU pressures, where frontline states face secondary movements, and central and northern states demand solidarity alongside strict flow management.

The new Greek deterrence legislation has already led to a 45% decrease in illegal entries in the last quarter, demonstrating the effectiveness of recent policy measures.

Greece is signaling its intent to take a leading role in European and international migration strategies. Through Africa-based return hubs and other initiatives, the country is opening a new chapter in migration management, enhancing its diplomatic leverage, and sending a message that it favors a more organized, deterrent, and humane approach to migration challenges.