EU member states struggling to transfer majority of migrants from Dublin centres to other European countries

In recent developments, the Berlin Administrative Court's ruling in June has brought a new focus on the return of asylum seekers without residence permits, particularly within the context of the Dublin Regulation.

The Dublin Regulation, a European Union law, obliges German authorities to identify the EU country responsible for an asylum seeker's initial registration. However, the practical application of this regulation often faces challenges due to its complexity and length, as highlighted by recent events.

One such facility aimed at expediting the return of asylum seekers is the new Return Center for Refugees in Eisenhuettenstadt, which was agreed upon on 17.02.2025. Despite being operational, the center has seen limited success, with only two deportations taking place since its opening. The center has a capacity of 150 places, but as of now, specific statistics on return numbers have not been publicly disclosed.

Similar challenges have been reported from Brandenburg and Hamburg's March-opened Dublin centers. High dropout rates have been a concern, with around 42 out of 72 accommodated persons reportedly going underground or seeking church asylum in Brandenburg. In comparison, Hamburg has seen 38 people transferred out of 75 accommodated migrants.

The Berlin Administrative Court's ruling in June highlighted legal uncertainty surrounding direct border rejections, a practice that is not permitted under the Dublin Regulation. This ruling could potentially impact the return of asylum seekers without clear responsibility being established under the Dublin Regulation.

In light of these challenges, Brandenburg's Interior Minister René Wilke has warned that the Dublin center may lose its purpose if the practice of rejections is not legally sustainable. Hamburg, meanwhile, has spoken of improved processes and a positive development, but stresses that the short period since the centers' opening is too short for a final assessment.

As these developments unfold, it is clear that the return of asylum seekers without residence permits remains a complex issue, with the Berlin Administrative Court's ruling adding a new layer of complexity to the ongoing debate.

EU member states struggling to transfer majority of migrants from Dublin centres to other European countries