Source: RTS
Photo: RTS
Video: RTS

Belgrade, March 18, 2025 – Radoš Đurović, Governing Board Director of the Asylum Protection Center, appeared on Radio Television of Serbia (RTS) Morning Program, where he discussed the European Union’s announcements regarding the establishment of reception centers for migrants outside its borders. These centers are part of new measures aimed at speeding up the return of individuals whose asylum applications have been rejected.

Aforementioned “hubs” could be located in countries such as Albania, as stipulated by a pilot agreement between Italy and Albania, although final decisions have not yet been made. As Đurović explains, these centers would house individuals who have already been denied asylum, while decisions regarding their status would still be made within EU territory.

It is expected also that these centers accommodate vulnerable groups, including families and children. However, their establishment will depend on whether the EU manages to reach suitable agreements with third countries willing to host them. Additionally, questions remain about how human rights and international standards will be upheld within these centers.

The EU is also considering additional measures, such as confiscating documents and banning entry for those who refuse to return, while individuals who return voluntarily may be offered more lenient conditions for potential re-entry. Nevertheless, according to Đurović, in practice, only about 20% of individuals with negative asylum decisions are actually removed from the EU, which highlights the complexity and limited effectiveness of the current system.

Beyond legal and technical challenges, there is also the issue of local resistance in countries that might host these centers. Đurović warns that without clear understanding and support from the public, such agreements may face serious obstacles in implementation. The EU initiative is reminiscent of similar international arrangements, such as the UK’s agreement with Rwanda, and raises important questions about the fair distribution of responsibility in refugee protection, in line with international conventions.

RTS video available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TvmgpWRYTV4