ATHENS, Feb. 18, 2026 – Greece is collaborating with four European partners to establish migrant deportation centers in third countries, most likely in Africa, for individuals whose asylum applications have been rejected.
Migration and Asylum Minister Thanos Plevris said on state broadcaster ERT that Greece is working alongside Germany, the Netherlands, Austria and Denmark to create so-called “return hubs,” preferably on the African continent.
“We are not speaking theoretically any more, we are speaking practically,” Plevris said, noting that ministers from the five countries have already met to discuss the initiative, with technical teams scheduled to convene next week. While Africa is the preferred location, he clarified that the choice is “not binding,” and no host countries have yet been officially identified.
Aim to Boost Returns
According to the minister, the return hubs would accommodate migrants whose asylum claims have been rejected and whose countries of origin refuse to accept their repatriation. Authorities believe the policy could act as a deterrent to irregular migration.
Greece, located on Europe’s southeastern frontier, has long served as a key entry point into the European Union for migrants fleeing conflict and poverty in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Thousands attempt dangerous sea crossings each year, either from the Turkish coast to Greek Aegean islands or from North Africa to islands such as Gavdos and Crete.
Plevris said illegal arrivals dropped by 21% in 2025 compared to 2024 — approximately 13,000 fewer arrivals — with a 40% decrease recorded over the past five months. However, he acknowledged that returns remain insufficient. While Greece currently carries out between 5,000 and 7,000 returns annually, around 40,000 to 50,000 new arrivals enter the country each year, roughly half of whose asylum applications are rejected.
European Policy Shift
The announcement comes shortly after European lawmakers approved new immigration rules allowing member states to deny asylum and deport migrants deemed to originate from safe countries or who could seek asylum outside the 27-nation bloc.
Plevris said Greece is intensifying efforts to improve cooperation with countries of origin. He is scheduled to travel to Rome next week for meetings with Italian and Spanish counterparts, as well as with Pakistan’s equivalent minister, to discuss enhanced return agreements.
The proposal marks a significant step in Europe’s evolving migration policy, as governments seek new mechanisms to manage asylum flows and increase deportations of rejected applicants.