The recent docking of an Italian Navy ship carrying migrants at the Albanian port of Shengjin has sparked heated debate on the international scene. This arrival marks the beginning of a controversial agreement between Rome and Tirana to manage asylum seekers intercepted in international waters.
The group of 16 people on board, including 6 Egyptians, were the first to benefit from this new policy. In concrete terms, the agreement provides for thousands of male asylum seekers to be processed outside Italy’s borders. Two reception centres have been set up in Albania, a non-EU country, to house these men while they await the finalisation of their administrative procedures.
It is important to stress that these individuals will retain their rights under international and EU law, allowing them to apply for asylum in Italy. The hearings will be held remotely from Rome. If their application is accepted, they will be transferred to Italy. However, if rejected, they will be sent back to their country of origin.
The Italian initiative represents a first in Europe, consisting of diverting migrants to a country outside the European Union, which has drawn strong criticism from human rights organizations. Indeed, the issue of illegal immigration has become a major challenge for the EU, pushing many countries to adopt stricter migration policies.
Italian authorities say that the Albanian centers can accommodate up to 400 migrants initially, with this figure expected to increase to 880 in a few weeks. Women, children, the elderly, as well as individuals who are sick or victims of torture will be housed in Italy, without separating families.
In a context where migration poses multiple challenges to Europe, this new approach raises complex ethical and political questions. As the European Union faces increasing pressure on immigration, it is crucial to find solutions that reconcile humanity with the need to protect the borders and interests of Member States.