Media: EU eyes "return hubs" in migration overhaul, with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan in frame

The European Union is moving closer to a major migration policy overhaul, with member states preparing to establish controversial “return hubs” for rejected asylum seekers in countries outside the bloc, Politico reports, citing EU diplomats.

A group of EU governments — including the Netherlands, Austria, Denmark, Germany and Greece — is working on arrangements that would see migrants whose asylum claims have been denied transferred to third countries while awaiting return to their countries of origin.

Officials say the initiative could be backed by development aid and visa liberalisation incentives for partner states.

Among the countries being considered for cooperation are Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, alongside other potential partners in Central Asia and beyond, although EU governments are reportedly reluctant to publicly confirm any specific destinations due to legal and political sensitivities.

The proposal comes as the EU seeks to finalise talks on its Returns Regulation, part of a broader effort to tighten enforcement of migration rules amid rising political pressure and the growing influence of far-right parties across Europe.

Supporters of the plan argue it is designed to improve return rates for those ordered to leave the bloc, which currently stand at around 28%, according to EU figures. European Commission officials say the reforms aim to introduce clearer obligations for returnees while reinforcing procedural safeguards.

However, the concept of offshore processing and return hubs has drawn criticism from human rights organisations, which warn it could shift legal responsibility beyond EU borders and create humanitarian risks.

Similar initiatives proposed in the past — including arrangements involving the UK and Italy — have faced legal and political challenges.

By Aghakazim Guliyev