Germany and the Dublin Procedure: Who is really left behind?

Germany and the Dublin Procedure: Who is really left behind?

In the first half of 2025, Germany sent over 20,000 takeover requests to other EU countries to repatriate migrants as part of the Dublin procedure. But the success was modest, as it was World reported. Of a total of 20,574 requests, only 3,109 migrants, i.e. around 15%, were actually repatriated.

The relationship with Italy is particularly tense. Despite 3,824 requests for takeover to Italy, no refugee was returned via the Dublin procedure. This raises questions, especially considering that Italy simultaneously agreed to 4,477 requests from Germany, some from the previous year. This situation highlights the challenges facing the Dublin system.

The Dublin procedure and its mechanisms

The purpose of the Dublin procedure, which is based on the Dublin III Regulation, is to determine which EU member state is responsible for processing an asylum application. The procedure is intended to prevent a person from applying for asylum in several countries. Each asylum application is only examined once in order to control secondary migration within Europe BAMF explained.

The process is clearly regulated: First, the applicant submits his application at a branch office or an arrival center. A personal conversation will take place to clarify responsibility and possible obstacles to deportation. In case of doubt, the file is forwarded to the responsible Dublin center, which checks responsibility and can send a takeover request to the relevant Member State.

Repatriations and ongoing problems

The numbers that World published show that Germany was also asked by other EU countries to take back 7,937 migrants, of which 2,326 cases were taken back. However, the repatriation to Greece turned out to be even more complicated. Germany wanted to bring back 3,554 migrants, but only received approval from Athens in 78 cases and ultimately only 20 refugees were actually transferred.

One reason for the difficulties could be the strict deadlines and requirements in the Dublin procedure, which influence the execution of returns. If there are delays, responsibility for the asylum check will pass to Germany, which can complicate the situation.

In order to discuss more current challenges and improvements in the Dublin system, the EUAA regularly organizes events bringing together the national Dublin bodies. These meetings provide a platform to set priorities and share expertise, as on the website EUAA is to be read.

Overall, a review of the first six months of 2025 shows that returns within Europe remain a hot topic that requires solutions. The Dublin system faces challenges that affect both Member States and migrants and it remains to be seen how the situation will develop in the coming months.