Giorgia Meloni has faced significant resistance in her strategy to curb migration flows into Italy, yet the Transalpine prime minister remains resolute. The most recent plan unveiled this Monday directs that some of the immigrants rescued by Italian Navy and Coast Guard vessels in the Mediterranean be moved to detention centers in Albania.
The measure, sure to spark substantial debate and reminiscent of a controversial move previously seen in the United Kingdom, was announced at a joint press conference in Rome with Albania’s prime minister Ed Rama. Both leaders asserted that the centers would be established on Albanian soil.
Indeed, the agreement envisages the creation of a first processing center in the coastal city of Shengjin in the north for fingerprinting, identity verification, and initial reception of migrants. A second facility is planned in Gjander, toward the northwest, that would function as a repatriation center.
friendly country
In both instances, Italy is expected to fund the construction and ongoing operation of the facilities, with a target to open by early spring 2024. The plan would operate under Italian law, and vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and children were reportedly excluded from the program.
As a starting point, Meloni framed Albania as a “friendly country,” noting that although it is not yet a member of the European Union, its actions reflect a cooperative spirit. She suggested that Italy has long supported the expansion of the European Union and the Western Balkans region, reinforcing a narrative of solidarity and shared responsibility.
Observers describe the deal as broadening collaboration between Rome and Tirana. Meloni highlighted the potential for a stronger partnership, while suggesting that the policy could lead to a clearer pathway for handling migration within the broader European area. Predictions circulated that as many as 36,000 migrants might be managed within such centers over the course of a year, depending on evolving circumstances and enforcement measures.
Notably, the remarks also touched on political tensions within Europe. Meloni emphasized the appeal for international assistance, even as portions of the Italian political spectrum express skepticism about drastic measures. The dialogue signals a shift toward practical cooperation with neighboring countries, while maintaining a firm stance on border control.
Analysts point out that the plan aims to balance humanitarian considerations with national security priorities. The proposed Albanian facilities are described as temporary reception and processing hubs rather than long-term accommodations, with the overarching aim of streamlining the asylum process and facilitating orderly returns when warranted. This approach reflects a broader trend in European migration policy that seeks to distribute responsibility across partner nations while preserving the integrity of safety frameworks.
In the broader context, the outcomes of this agreement could influence regional stability, bilateral relations, and the pace of EU-related discussions about asylum procedures. Supporters argue the policy could alleviate pressure on Italian ports and service networks, while opponents warn of potential human rights implications if oversight is not robust. The debate continues as both governments prepare for implementation details and oversight mechanisms.
Ultimately, the Albanian partnership is framed by its proponents as a strategic step in managing migration with a practical, collaborative mindset. The emphasis remains on humane treatment, orderly processing, and adherence to established legal standards, while acknowledging the political realities that shape policy choices in both Rome and Tirana. This evolving situation will be watched closely by policymakers, humanitarian organizations, and international observers seeking clarity on how such arrangements will operate in practice and what they might mean for the broader European migration landscape. [attribution: report from Rome and Tirana press briefings, current affairs desk]