The Dutch government has approved the establishment of migrant centers outside the EU

The Netherlands is actively promoting an initiative to establish the European Union’s first repatriation hubs outside the bloc, where migrants who have lost or never obtained the right to reside in the EU will be forcibly deported. Currently, Dutch officials are engaged in substantive negotiations with several foreign countries regarding the establishment of such facilities. 

An intergovernmental agreement on this matter is expected to be announced within the next six to seven months, according to Politico, citing diplomatic sources familiar with the plans.

Journalists also obtained an official letter from the Dutch government addressed to the national parliament. According to this document, the country, together with a number of other European partners, plans to establish initial asylum screening centers outside the EU as well. The Cabinet notes that a comprehensive legal review conducted in advance found no legal obstacles to either the creation of deportation centers or the transfer of the asylum application review process outside the European Union.