Overview

• Keir Starmer unveiled the hubs proposal in May as part of efforts to deter Channel crossings and dismantle smuggling gangs by processing failed claims abroad.
• Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama publicly declined to host a centre, warning the idea reflects a “very dark place” in Britain’s post-Brexit discourse.
• London is now pursuing agreements with Serbia, Bosnia and North Macedonia to establish centres where refused applicants will be screened and repatriated if unsuccessful.
• Government spokespeople say hubs alone will not stop small boat arrivals but will bolster measures designed to return migrants with no lawful basis to remain.
• Albania’s refusal contrasts with its existing, legally challenged pact with Italy and comes as Tirana advances accelerated EU accession talks targeting membership by 2030.