Italy has set up two migrant centers in Albania to process asylum applications for Africans migrating to Europe through Italy. This controversial plan, agreed between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, aims to curb illegal immigration by deterring sea crossings.
The centers, located in Shëngjin and Gjadër, will house up to 3,000 men monthly, though women, children, and vulnerable individuals will still be taken to Italy. The asylum process in Albania is expected to be much faster, with applications processed in 28 days. However, most requests will likely be rejected since the applicants are from countries Italy deems safe, such as Bangladesh and Egypt. Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda are not in the list of the 22 countries considered safe by the Italian government. Those who are granted asylum will be transferred to Italy, while others face repatriation.
Meloni believes this plan could become part of the EU’s long-term solution to the migration crisis, though it has drawn criticism from human rights groups. The €670 million initiative is designed to shift part of the migration burden away from Italy and could serve as a deterrent for future migrants trying to reach Europe by sea.
