Leaders Propose EU Asylum-Seeker Facilities in North Africa

Hungarian, Serbian, and Slovakian leaders proposed creating facilities for asylum-seekers outside the EU, aiming to curb illegal immigration. During a meeting, they criticized the EU's current migration pact and called for stricter policies. They suggested EU-funded 'hotspots' for processing asylum applications in locations like North Africa.

Hungary, Serbia, and Slovakia have jointly proposed establishing facilities outside of the European Union to host asylum-seekers. The leaders argue that this approach will help curb illegal immigration perceived as a threat to the EU. The plan, discussed at a meeting in Komarno, Slovakia, includes stricter deportation measures and increased funding to border nations.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban criticized the EU's current migration pact adopted in May, deeming it more problematic than helpful. Orban suggested setting up EU-funded 'hotspots' in North Africa for processing asylum applications, enabling Europe-bound individuals to wait outside the EU until their applications are approved.

Robert Fico, prime minister of Slovakia, proposed erecting physical barriers on the EU's borders to prevent illegal crossings. The plan comes despite a reported decrease in such crossings, with EU border agency Frontex noting a significant drop in the first nine months of 2024.

(With inputs from agencies.)