Italy has opened two return hub centers in Albania to process asylum-seekers outside its borders, a move that has sparked controversy among human rights campaigners. France’s Prime Minister Michel Barnier expressed skepticism about this deal working in France due to legal reasons. Italy’s plan involves housing only adult men in Albania, while other vulnerable groups will be accommodated in Italy. The Italian coast guard will shelter up to 3,000 migrants each month in Albania under a five-year agreement signed in November. However, a court ruling in Rome allowed 16 migrants sent to Albania to return to Italy. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized the ruling, arguing that pushing people away and defending borders were crucial. Italy and France have now agreed to set up a special “brigade” to address migrant trafficking over their border. Irregular migration is a pressing issue for the EU, with many countries demanding more stringent measures to stop border crossings and asylum claims. The debate has shifted towards innovative solutions, including the establishment of return hubs outside EU territory. Despite challenges with deportations, countries are looking at new ways to manage denied asylum seekers. Italy’s move to outsource the housing of asylum seekers has set a controversial precedent, fueling debate on migration policies in the EU.
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Barnier claims that a migrant processing agreement which involves Albania cannot be applied in France.
