Belgium Excludes Minors from EU Return Hub Plans

Prime Minister Bart De Wever informed parliament on Wednesday that Belgium intends to utilize the new framework of return hubs for rejected asylum seekers, but will not place minors in these centers. This decision clarifies the government's position amidst internal coalition disagreements regarding the treatment of underage applicants under the new European regulations.

The announcement follows a June agreement between EU member states and the European Parliament that established the legal basis for creating these extraterritorial centers. While five European countries aim to secure partnerships with non-EU nations for the hubs by the start of next year, the implementation has sparked debate within Belgium’s federal government over the ethical and legal implications for children.

Coalition tensions over youth policy

Responding to inquiries from François De Smet of DéFI and Sandro Di Nunzio of Anders, De Wever acknowledged that coalition partners had raised significant concerns about the placement of minors in these facilities. According to the Prime Minister, this disagreement created a distinct tension within the cabinet, which was resolved by agreeing to a strict exclusion for underage individuals.

De Wever stated that while the government supports the establishment of the hubs, it is not willing to send minors there. This stance highlights a divergence in approach compared to some other European nations that may be preparing to include broader demographics in their initial agreements with non-EU partners.

Legal framework and rights

The government expressed its welcome for the new legal framework enabling the creation of return hubs, emphasizing that any implementation must adhere to the fullest respect for human rights. By excluding minors, Brussels seeks to align its specific national policies with these broader human rights obligations while still participating in the EU's broader migration management strategy.

Forward questions on implementation

As five European countries move to finalize deals with non-EU nations by the start of next year, observers will watch how Belgium navigates its specific exclusion of minors in bilateral negotiations. The coming months will reveal whether this protective stance remains a unique Belgian exception or influences the broader EU approach to protecting vulnerable groups in these new centers, according to reports from GN geopolitics/migration (en-US).