EU approves scheme to send migrants to third countries — including Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan

The European Union is preparing to adopt a new migration framework that allows migrants to be detained longer and deported faster. As a major innovation, this arrangement enables the use of deportation centres in third countries, with Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan mentioned as possible locations.

The European Union is preparing to approve a new migration framework that will significantly alter how member states treat undocumented migrants. The new rules give member states the possibility to detain migrants for longer than before and include measures intended to accelerate the deportation process.

Central Asian camps as innovation

As a major innovation, the planned framework allows for the establishment of deportation centres outside EU borders — in third countries. According to sources, Central Asian countries, including Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, have been discussed as possible locations. This approach is somewhat similar to the UK's so-called Rwanda scheme, which aimed to direct asylum seekers to Africa for solutions.

Stricter rules on deportation

Under the new framework, EU member states will be able to apply longer detention periods for migrants they wish to remove from their territory. In addition, specific mechanisms will be introduced that should accelerate administrative processes and reduce delays that have so far hindered the effective return of undocumented migrants to their countries of origin.

The plan has drawn criticism from human rights advocates and civil society organisations, who warn that the use of third countries for deportation centres could lead to serious human rights violations and the blurring of responsibility. However, the plan reflects a broader trend in European politics, where there is pressure to significantly limit migration.