The German government, together with other EU member states, is pursuing the establishment of return centers in third countries — Return Hubs — and is conducting initial exploratory talks with potential partner nations. This was announced by the Bundestag press service citing a federal government response to an interpellation submitted by the AfD parliamentary group.
- Exploratory talks with prospective partner nations are in an initial phase.
- The concept targets the return of migrants obliged to leave the country; examination of practical implementation is ongoing.
Background of the Parliamentary Response
According to the Bundestag, government response 21/8064 concerns agreements with third countries regarding the return of individuals obliged to leave Germany (Ausreisepflichtige). The response addresses minor interpellation 21/7883 submitted by the AfD parliamentary group.
Ongoing Examination of Practical Implementation
In its response dated September 18, the federal government indicated that the legal foundation for such centers will be established once the new EU Return Regulation enters into force in autumn 2026, according to the Bundestag press service.
The government also stated that it continues to examine the operational and logistical feasibility of the concept. Specific partner countries and target opening dates were not disclosed in the report.