EU Considers Uzbekistan as Potential Migration Return Hub
An aerial photograph taken on 24 April 2024 shows the Bibby Stockholm accommodation barge moored at Portland Port in Portland, on the south-west coast of England. Photo: Ben Stansall/AFP
The European Union is exploring the possibility of establishing migration return hubs in several non-EU countries, including Uzbekistan, as part of efforts to accelerate the deportation of rejected asylum seekers.
According to reports, the European Commission is considering agreements with countries such as Uzbekistan, Rwanda and Uganda to host migrants who have exhausted legal avenues to remain in the EU. The proposal is part of a broader strategy to address irregular migration and improve the bloc’s return rates.
Supporters argue that return hubs could help ease pressure on European asylum systems and deter illegal migration. However, the idea has sparked criticism from human rights organizations, which warn about potential legal and ethical concerns surrounding the transfer of migrants to third countries.
EU officials stress that any future agreements would need to comply with international law and include safeguards for the rights of migrants. Discussions remain at an early stage, and no formal agreement has been reached with Uzbekistan or other potential host countries.
The debate comes as European governments face growing political pressure to tighten migration controls and increase the number of deportations of individuals whose asylum applications have been rejected.
