The arrival of the first ship carrying 16 migrants from Bangladesh and Egypt in Albania marks the beginning of a new migration policy between Italy and Albania. This initiative allows asylum applications to be processed outside Italy, with two centers established in Albania for this purpose. The migrants were picked up by the Italian Navy from the Mediterranean and arrived at the Albanian port of Shëngjin after a 36-hour journey.
Migrants will be housed in the reception centers at Shëngjin and Gjadër while their asylum claims are processed. If approved, they will be allowed to enter Italy. This agreement, endorsed by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as an innovative measure, is seen by some as a potential model for the EU. However, it has sparked criticism from human rights groups who argue it might set a dangerous precedent.
The policy's reception within the EU is mixed. While some see it as a potential blueprint for broader EU adoption, concerns have been raised regarding its fairness, oversight, and legal implications. The plan's high cost and its impact on human rights are also points of contention. Additionally, the European Court of Justice has deemed only seven countries as safe, excluding Bangladesh and Egypt, complicating the processing of certain asylum claims.
As this approach unfolds, its effectiveness and ethical implications will likely remain subjects of significant debate. The balance between innovation in migration policy and the protection of human rights will be crucial for the future of such agreements.
