Politics 8 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
EU Considers Uganda as Potential "Return Hub" for 10,000 Asylum Seekers
Two European Union Members of Parliament recently visited Uganda and proposed the establishment of an offshore detention center for rejected asylum seekers, a plan that could involve up to 10,000 individuals. While Uganda has a strong humanitarian record in hosting refugees, the feasibility and implications of such a proposal are under consideration. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/eu-mulls-dumping-10-000-asylum-seekers-in-uganda-5624182
A recent proposal by two European Union (EU) lawmakers suggests that Uganda could become a “return hub” for approximately 10,000 asylum seekers whose applications have been rejected.
During a visit to Kampala in late September, EU MPs Tineke Strik and Anna Strolenber met with Ugandan officials, including the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, and representatives from the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The discussions reportedly touched upon the idea of Uganda hosting a facility akin to an offshore detention center for migrants and asylum seekers deemed ineligible for residency in EU member states.
Despite these discussions, Uganda’s commitment to its humanitarian principles remains firm. Deputy Speaker Tayebwa reportedly reiterated Uganda’s dedication to accepting asylum seekers, highlighting the nation’s refugee policy, which is founded on humanitarian values. This stance is notable given Uganda’s existing position as a major host country for refugees, currently accommodating over two million individuals.
The country’s capacity to manage this large refugee population is under strain, with operating budgets reportedly running at less than 50 percent of requirements. This financial pressure has led to calls for voluntary repatriation of refugees from areas where peace has been restored, aiming to reduce the burden on public services.
The EU’s potential consideration of Uganda for such a role raises questions about the ethical and practical implications for both the asylum seekers and Uganda, given its existing challenges in supporting its current refugee population.