BRUSSELS (ANP) – “I am eager to expedite the process. It’s crucial that we take action, and I’m working to accelerate this issue,” stated Faber.
The Netherlands strongly supports the concept of ‘return hubs’, which are facilities located outside the EU where rejected asylum seekers await deportation back to their home countries.
These return hubs are part of the proposal put forth by Brunner regarding new regulations for the return of rejected asylum seekers. Faber noted that the European Commissioner did not provide additional details about his plan during a meeting with ministers, but it is set to be presented on Tuesday.
According to Faber, the Netherlands has been advocating for a more efficient and faster return process within Europe. “We have actively lobbied for this,” she remarked, highlighting the considerable support she has observed among other EU ministers.
“Let’s face it, if the return process isn’t well-organized, then even if you have your asylum system in place, the crucial final step is the return,” Faber emphasized.
However, the return hubs are contentious. Italy currently operates a center in Albania but has had to repatriate asylum seekers to Italy on multiple occasions due to court orders. It remains uncertain whether Brunner can devise a solution for these centers that satisfies all legal standards.
The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) recently cautioned in a report that return centers should not become zones devoid of rights. The agency asserts that even if these centers are established outside the EU, the fundamental rights protections outlined in EU legislation remain applicable.
(March 5, 2025)
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