Nineteen European Union member states have endorsed a proposal to establish offshore migrant centers in non-EU countries, where rejected asylum seekers could be transferred while awaiting return to their countries of origin. The plan, long advocated by Denmark and Italy, aims to streamline the return process and reduce irregular migration.
The endorsement came during a meeting of EU interior ministers on June 26, 2026, in Luxembourg. The proposal is part of a broader effort to overhaul the bloc's migration and asylum system, which has been under strain due to increased arrivals. The centers would be located in third countries willing to host them, with details on specific locations and operational frameworks yet to be finalized.
Critics, including human rights organizations, have raised concerns about the legality and ethics of outsourcing asylum processing. They argue that such centers could lead to human rights violations and lack adequate oversight. The European Commission has stated that any arrangement must comply with international law and ensure the protection of migrants' rights.
The plan requires further approval from the European Parliament and all 27 member states before implementation. It is expected to face significant debate, particularly regarding funding and the selection of host countries. The EU has previously explored similar models with countries like Turkey and Libya, but with limited success.
