Italy's Controversial Refugee Policy with Albania

Italy has initiated a new approach to handling migrants by sending a group of 16 individuals from Bangladesh and Egypt to reception centers in Albania. This move is part of a broader strategy, which includes screening and asylum procedures managed under Italian oversight.

Initially, the plan allows for up to 400 migrants, with potential expansion to 800. However, the initiative has faced backlash from human rights organizations and the Italian opposition, primarily due to the projected costs approaching 1 billion euros.

Migrants retain their right to apply for asylum in Italy, adhering to international and EU laws. The centers, financed and organized by Italy, aim to expedite asylum decisions, but concerns persist regarding the legality and safety of this strategy amidst ongoing debates about the treatment of migrants and the handling of asylum requests.