The European Commission had earlier proposed the use of return hubs in March as part of its plans for a new Common European System for Returns. [3] The note further discusses the potential role of return hubs as a policy response, in accordance with human rights norms and principles. Location of and support to return hubsThe location of return hubs would need to be determined in discussions between States. As in all return proceedings, returnees in return hubs should be provided with counseling on alternatives to involuntary return, including assisted voluntary return. [4] See, on the specific human rights considerations and principles relating to return hubs, European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, Planned return hubs in third countries: EU fundamental rights law issues, 6 February 2024, https://fra.europa.eu/en/publication/2025/return-hubs .
