UK Seeks Return Hubs Abroad for Failed Asylum Seekers

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK government is initiating talks with other countries to establish "return hubs" for failed asylum seekers, aiming to process these individuals in third countries before deportation. This initiative targets migrants who have exhausted their legal appeals and are obstructing deportation, intending to reduce irregular crossings, especially those across the English Channel, which have reached record levels this year. The return hubs are part of a broader strategy including tougher immigration policies such as reducing overseas care workers and extending settlement qualification periods, designed to combat smuggling gangs and deter illegal migration. Starmer emphasized that return hubs are not a standalone solution but a complement to other measures to address the rising pressure on the UK’s borders amid political challenges from the anti-immigration Reform UK party. While Starmer did not disclose which countries are involved in talks, Albania declined participation, and existing models like Italy’s agreement with Albania provide a framework for such arrangements. The government’s approach marks a shift from the previous administration’s Rwanda deportation scheme, focusing on failed asylum seekers who have completed their appeal processes.