Discussions at the European Court of Justice are focusing on Italy’s proposal to establish asylum centers in Albania. If successful, this initiative could influence other EU nations to follow suit, as urged by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The Italian government aims to streamline asylum processing in Albania, while challenges remain in finding partner countries for such arrangements. The outcome of these talks may determine the future of EU migration policy and deportation strategies.
Can Italy Create Asylum Centers in Albania? The European Court of Justice Begins Discussions Today
As discussions unfold in Luxembourg, Italy is not the only nation keeping a close watch; various EU capitals are also monitoring the proceedings at the European Court of Justice. If Italy successfully establishes asylum centers in Albania, it may pave the way for other member states to implement similar initiatives.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the EU Commission, has encouraged other countries to take cues from Italy’s approach. Following the EU summit in mid-October, she remarked, “The concept of developing return centers beyond the borders of the European Union is complex, yet it has been a topic of discourse.”
With the EU summit approaching, the conversation surrounding asylum policy is intensifying.
EU’s Commitment to Curb Migration
Last year, the EU committed to managing and curbing immigration effectively. This decision has led to increased political pressure on member states to enhance the deportation of individuals required to leave their countries of origin or transit. According to von der Leyen, only 20% of these individuals manage to return home.
By establishing centers like those in Albania, the EU might be able to partially transfer its migration challenges to countries outside the union. A proposal for new legislation on this matter is expected from the Commission next month.
The Italian government is determined to facilitate the processing of refugees in Albania, yet judicial intervention is once again on the horizon.
Deportation Centers Beyond EU Borders?
Interior Commissioner Magnus Brunner is engaging in discussions about creating deportation camps, referred to as return hubs. He clarifies that this concept would apply solely to individuals whose asylum applications have been denied and who are under a deportation order. In these external deportation centers, rejected asylum seekers could be housed temporarily.
However, Italy’s government aims to take a more comprehensive approach, proposing to transfer the entire asylum process to Albania. This would allow for quicker decisions on applications from individuals arriving by boat. Successful asylum seekers could then enter Italy, while those whose applications are denied would be deported from Albania to either their home country or a safe third nation.
Netherlands Exploring a Similar Approach
Last week, Interior Commissioner Brunner met with Italy’s Prime Minister Georgia Meloni in Rome to discuss these concepts further. She shared her vision with interested colleagues during the EU summit in October.
Reports indicate that the far-right Dutch government is contemplating the establishment of a return center in Uganda.
The Italian Coast Guard recently rescued 16 men from Egypt and Bangladesh, transporting them to Albania.
Germany’s Position on Outsourcing Asylum Procedures
Chancellor Olaf Scholz has expressed skepticism regarding the outsourcing of asylum processes, stating, “It is evident that solutions which only address a fraction of the issue are insufficient for a large country like Germany.”
Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has highlighted practical challenges, noting, “Finding a partner country is crucial for such collaborations, and this is often the most daunting aspect in practice.”
Identifying Safe Third Countries
Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama has made it clear that any agreements regarding camps in his country are strictly with Italy. He stated, “Our deep-seated appreciation for Italy drives this decision, reflecting our sense of responsibility as neighbors and fellow Europeans.”
For other EU nations to replicate the Italian model, they would need to identify additional safe third countries, a task that proves to be quite challenging. The ongoing negotiations in Luxembourg will reveal whether Italy can indeed set a precedent for others to follow.