Overview

• The UNHCR has endorsed the concept of return hubs, setting guidelines to ensure human rights standards, legal protections, and adequate accommodations for transferred migrants.
• The European Commission has formally supported member states pursuing return hubs, providing additional legal and political backing for the UK's plans.
• Over 9,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel this year, a 45% increase compared to the same period in 2024, intensifying pressure for effective deterrent measures.
• Home Secretary Yvette Cooper recently discussed funding Balkan countries to host return hubs with the UNHCR, as the UK prepares to approach Albania, Serbia, Bosnia, and North Macedonia.
• The UK government aims to finalize proposals for return hubs, learning from Italy's use of Albanian processing centers, as it navigates political and legal challenges.