The Italian government reaffirmed its commitment to implementing a controversial plan to detain asylum seekers in centers in Albania and pledged to collaborate with allies on “innovative” measures to curb irregular migration to Europe.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration struck a deal with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama last year, enabling Italy to transfer migrants intercepted at sea to facilities in Albania. The right-wing leader argues that the initiative will discourage departures from Africa.
However, the plan has faced legal challenges. Courts have questioned its alignment with EU laws, ruling that two groups of detained migrants must be transferred back to Italy, leaving the Albanian centers empty.
Following a ministerial meeting on Monday, Meloni’s office reiterated Italy’s determination to advance the initiative. “The government remains steadfast in working with EU partners on so-called ‘innovative solutions’ to address the migration phenomenon,” the statement said.
Under the plan, only male migrants from a government-designated list of “safe” countries are eligible for transfer to Albania. Their asylum applications are fast-tracked, with most likely resulting in rejection, enabling quicker repatriation.
Last week, the Italian Supreme Court ruled the government could determine which countries are deemed safe for deportation, bolstering Meloni’s resolve to proceed with the scheme.
Meloni informed ministers of a “strong consensus” among EU member states on the need for new strategies to manage migration during a recent Brussels meeting.
The plan’s future hinges on an upcoming ruling from the EU Court of Justice, expected in the coming months.