First Group of Migrants Depart for Albania
Italy has initiated the transfer of its first group of 16 male migrants to newly established asylum processing centres in Albania, according to the country’s Interior Ministry. This transfer is set to occur on Wednesday when the migrants reach the Albanian port of Shëngjin. Part of a controversial initiative aimed at processing thousands of asylum-seekers beyond Italy’s borders, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has hailed the move as “a good example” of forward-thinking policy.
Government’s Ambitious Plan
This new approach represents a significant shift in Italy’s migration strategy, with Meloni describing it as a “courageous” step that reflects the European spirit. The agreement between Italy and Albania, signed in November, sets the groundwork for processing up to 3,000 male migrants in Albania, following their interception in international waters while attempting to reach Europe from North Africa.
Details of the Transfer
The first group consists of ten individuals from Bangladesh and six from Egypt, who were rescued at sea and transported from the Sicilian island of Lampedusa. Upon their arrival in Shëngjin, they will undergo identification and health screenings. Those cleared to apply for asylum in Italy will be relocated to Gjader, where various facilities, including reception and repatriation centres, have been established to support their processing.
Concerns Over Rights and Involvement of UN Refugee Agency
The United Nations refugee agency has expressed serious reservations about Italy’s plan. A representative confirmed that their team is conducting an independent mission aboard the ship carrying the migrants to oversee the screening process. The agency has committed to supervising the first three months of the operation to ensure the rights and dignity of those involved are maintained.
Call for Greater European Cooperation
As migration challenges persist along the Mediterranean, Meloni and her right-wing allies have urged European nations to share the responsibility for managing migration more effectively. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has backed this call, suggesting that Europe should consider developing return hubs outside its borders as part of its migration strategy. She emphasizes learning from Italy’s recent experience to find collective solutions to ongoing migration issues across the continent.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Reuters
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