How would the deportation process work under this proposal?
ATHENS — Greece is leading a coalition of five EU nations seeking to deport migrants whose asylum claims have been denied to third countries such as Rwanda, with plans to begin transfers as early as next year. Migration Minister Thanos Plevris announced the initiative, stating the so-called Core Group — comprising Denmark, Austria, and others — aims to implement the scheme by the first half of 2027. The proposal targets individuals who have exhausted all legal avenues to remain in the EU.
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French students and teachers protest inadequate school resourcesThe plan builds on existing EU discussions about externalizing migration management, drawing inspiration from similar agreements between the UK and Rwanda. Greece argues that relocating rejected asylum seekers to safe third countries would ease pressure on overburdened reception systems and deter irregular arrivals. Minister Plevris emphasized that transfers would only occur after full legal procedures are completed and with guarantees of humane treatment in destination countries. The initiative requires EU-wide legal frameworks and cooperation with partner nations willing to accept deportees.
What challenges could hinder the plan’s implementation?
Under the proposed mechanism, migrants denied asylum would be transferred following final court rulings, with Greece coordinating logistics and funding alongside partner states. The Core Group intends to negotiate bilateral agreements with countries like Rwanda, ensuring access to basic services and legal protections for deportees. Plevris stressed that the scheme would not bypass EU asylum laws but operate within them, using voluntary return principles enhanced by third-country partnerships. Monitoring mechanisms would be established to oversee conditions in receiving nations.
Legal experts warn that the proposal may conflict with international non-refoulement principles, which prohibit returning individuals to places where they face serious harm. EU courts have previously scrutinized similar externalization deals, raising concerns about accountability and oversight. Additionally, securing consensus among all 27 member states remains uncertain, as several nations oppose outsourcing migration responsibilities. Human rights groups have already criticized the idea as ethically problematic and potentially unlawful.
Which countries are part of the Core Group pushing for this initiative? The Core Group includes Greece, Denmark, Austria, and two other unnamed EU states, according to Migration Minister Thanos Plevris.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Greece expect the first transfers to begin? Plevris stated that transfers could start as early as next year, with full implementation targeted for the first half of 2027.
What guarantees are proposed for migrants sent to third countries? The minister said transfers would only occur after legal asylum processes conclude and with assurances of humane treatment and access to essential services in destination countries.
