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Italian Government Proposes Transforming Albanian Centers into Repatriation Hubs Amid Legal and Political Controversy
The Italian government is considering a controversial plan to repurpose two migrant centers in Albania—Shëngjin and Gjader—into Centers for Repatriation (CPR). These centers, initially intended to host migrants intercepted in international Mediterranean waters, have remained largely empty due to repeated rejections by Italian judges and courts. The proposal, discussed in a recent meeting involving Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, and Undersecretary Alfredo Mantovano, could be formalized in a new decree. The idea is to transform these structures into facilities for irregular migrants already present in Italy, facilitating their expulsion. Minister for European Affairs Tommaso Foti confirmed the government is evaluating this option, potentially ahead of a pending European Court of Justice ruling.
Legal and Political Pushback: A Divisive Plan
The plan has sparked significant debate, with opposition parties and even some coalition members expressing skepticism. Forza Italia, a key partner in the ruling coalition, has urged caution, advocating for a wait-and-see approach until the European Court of Justice delivers its ruling on February 25 and until Italy’s highest court, the Cassation, rules on related appeals. Deputy Minister of Justice Francesco Paolo Sisto emphasized the importance of aligning any new measures with European and national jurisprudence. Meanwhile, Matteo Salvini, the influential leader of the League, sidestepped direct questions on the proposal, deferring to the Interior Minister.
Opposition Criticism: A Flawed and Costly Strategy
Opposition parties have been vocal in their criticism, questioning the logic and feasibility of the plan. Davide Faraone of Italia Viva highlighted the existing network of CPR centers on Italian soil, arguing that the justification for building expensive structures in Albania no longer holds. “These centers were supposed to deter departures, but now they’re being filled at all costs, pretending they work,” Faraone remarked. Simona Bonafè of the Democratic Party echoed these sentiments, describing the Albania model as a “bankruptcy” and criticizing the government for pursuing a flawed strategy regardless of judicial outcomes.
Legal Perplexities: Jurisdiction and Migrant Rights at Stake
The proposal to convert the Albanian centers into repatriation hubs raises serious legal concerns. Foremost among these is the potential subtraction of the “natural judge,” denying migrants the opportunity to seek revisions of their expulsion orders in Italian courts. Additionally, the plan could strip Italian jurisdiction over the centers, transferring oversight to Albanian authorities under the terms of a bilateral treaty. Critics argue this would undermine migrants’ rights and create legal ambiguities, particularly if the European Court of Justice rules against such arrangements.
Risks and Challenges: A High-Stakes Move
The government’s push to expedite expulsions and bypass potential legal hurdles carries significant risks. Migrants in these centers may face barriers in accessing legal aid, challenging their detention, or applying for international protection. Furthermore, transferring jurisdiction to Albania could create logistical and diplomatic challenges, as it assumes Tirana’s willingness and capacity to manage these facilities effectively. The plan also risks alienating European partners, as it may contravene EU norms on migration and human rights.
A Larger Debate: Migration Policy in Flux
The controversy over the Albanian centers reflects a broader struggle within Italy—and Europe—over migration policy. The government’s approach, driven by electoral promises to toughen border controls, faces resistance from both legal institutions and political opponents. As the European Court of Justice prepares to rule on related cases, the Italian government must navigate a complex landscape of national sovereignty, EU law, and human rights obligations. The outcome of this debate will not only shape the fate of the Shëngjin and Gjader centers but also influence Italy’s migration strategy for years to come.
