Rome, Italy – Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has defended her government’s controversial decision to transfer migrants to processing centers in Albania, a move that marks a first for Europe. As Italy commenced the transfer of the first group of migrants, consisting of 16 men from Egypt and Bangladesh, Meloni emphasized the initiative as a “courageous and unprecedented path” reflective of the European spirit.
The migrants are expected to arrive at the Albanian processing centers tomorrow, with Meloni asserting that the arrangement could serve as a model for cooperation with other non-EU nations. “It has everything it takes to be followed also with other non-EU nations,” she stated.
EU Summit Focuses on Migration
The initiative comes as European leaders prepare for an upcoming summit in Brussels, where migration will be a key topic of discussion. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the significance of the Italian-Albanian deal in a letter to member states, suggesting that the EU could “draw lessons from this experience in practice.”
The two processing centers in Albania will operate under Italian law, staffed by Italian personnel, with judges conducting hearings via video from Rome. This arrangement aims to expedite the processing of asylum claims and potentially reduce the backlog of migrants arriving in Italy.
Human Rights Concerns Raised
Despite the government’s assurances, human rights advocates have raised concerns about the adequacy of protections for asylum seekers in the new centers. Susanna Zanfrini, the Italy director for the International Rescue Committee, criticized the plan as a “dangerous political experiment.” She emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights of those seeking asylum, expressing skepticism about how Italy would ensure these protections outside the jurisdiction of the EU.
Political Context and Future Implications
Italy’s Mediterranean coastline has long been a major entry point for migrants seeking to reach Europe. Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party, which has roots in post-fascism, made strong promises to curtail migrant arrivals during the 2022 national elections. The agreement to open the asylum centers in Albania was finalized in November 2023 in discussions with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama.
In a statement to the Senate, Meloni proclaimed that her government is setting a “good example” for other countries on how to handle irregular migration. She also announced plans for an informal meeting at the EU summit to address migration-related concerns among interested member states.
However, Prime Minister Rama cautioned that while the arrangement with Italy is beneficial, it may not be easily replicated by other countries. “We have been asked by others and we have said no,” he remarked, highlighting the unique historical ties between Italy and Albania.
As Italy navigates this new approach to migration, the implications for European cooperation and the treatment of asylum seekers remain a focal point of scrutiny and debate.
