EU again proposes 'return hubs' in Morocco and other countries to tackle migration crisis

The European Commission has proposed establishing “return hubs” in Morocco as part of a broader strategy to address the ongoing migration crisis. 

In a letter to European leaders, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined plans to increase cooperation with countries along migration routes, including Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, Senegal, and Mali, to prevent migrants from reaching European shores.

The proposal marks a significant shift in EU migration policy, moving away from a focus on search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean Sea towards more proactive measures to deter irregular migration. 

The Commission envisions creating “return hubs” outside the EU where migrants without a legal right to stay can be sent, similar to a recent deal between Italy and Albania.

Von der Leyen stressed the need to accelerate the implementation of the EU’s Migration Pact, a set of rules and processes for managing migration that was agreed upon in May 2024. 

The Pact aims to improve border management, asylum procedures, and returns, but its full implementation is not expected until mid-2026.

The Commission’s proposals come amid growing concerns about irregular migration in Europe. While the number of migrants arriving in Europe has decreased significantly from its peak in 2015, migration remains a highly sensitive political issue in many EU countries.

Far-right parties have gained ground on platforms that promise to curb immigration, and several member states have reintroduced border controls.

Poland and Finland have recently suspended asylum rights for migrants arriving from Belarus, a move that has been criticized by human rights organizations. 

Germany has also introduced border controls with its neighbors, suspending the Schengen zone’s passport-free travel.

The EU’s efforts to address the migration crisis are likely to face challenges. Critics argue that the focus on deterrence and returns may violate international law and human rights. 

The Commission’s proposals require cooperation from countries outside the EU, which may be difficult to achieve.