Greece Approves Faster Deportations and Return Hubs

The Greek Parliament has approved legislation to speed up the deportation of rejected asylum seekers and allow them to be transferred to so-called return hubs outside the European Union once bilateral agreements are reached with third countries.

Greece was one of the main gateways into Europe during the 2015–2016 migration crisis. Arrivals have fallen since then, but Crete and Gavdos have seen a sharp rise in migrant boats reaching their shores in recent years, mainly from Libya.

Last week, European Parliament lawmakers and EU member states agreed on new rules allowing countries to send migrants ordered to leave the bloc to centers in third countries. The measure has drawn criticism from human rights organizations, which warn of possible abuses.

Athens is working with the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany and Austria to establish joint return and transit hubs. Talks with Uganda on a similar arrangement have been put on hold.

Migration Minister Thanos Plevris said EU member states were seeking to conclude their first agreements this year so that the hubs could be operational in 2027. Greece is already in talks with two African countries, he said.

(reuters, bak)