Germany and the Netherlands have agreed to speed up the repatriation of rejected asylum seekers and to broaden cooperation between their security services along the shared border. The German Federal Ministry of the Interior announced the accord. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) and Dutch Minister for Migration and Asylum, Bart van den Brink, met in Berlin on Thursday to discuss the details.
The talks centred on a swift implementation of the European asylum and migration package. A key element will be the establishment of so‑called “Return Hubs”-facilities designed to make the return of rejected asylum seekers more efficient. Both countries plan to work closely in engaging third‑country partners and in carrying out diplomatic actions.
Security cooperation is also to be deepened. Special units from both nations will collaborate more closely, and authorities along the entire border-from Aachen and Maastricht all the way to the North Sea-will be able to exchange information 24 hours a day.
“Germany and the Netherlands are advancing together on migration policy” Dobrindt said. “What is clear: we want less irregular migration and far more returns”. He added that the countries will rely on clear rules and new tools such as Return Hubs to ensure returns are carried out consistently. “At the same time, we are making our countries safer. We are working closer together, sharing information faster, and strengthening police cooperation across the border”.