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Italy and Albania Implement Migrant Processing Centers in Unprecedented Deal

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni visits Albania to solidify the agreement as the EU considers replicating the model.

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A migrant reception center at the port of Shenjin, northwestern Albania, June 5, 2024.
On June 5, 2024, policemen guard a migrant reception center at the port of Shengjin, in northwestern Albania. Albania is hosting thousands of asylum-seekers while Italy processes their claims.

Overview

  • The five-year deal allows Albania to host up to 3,000 migrants per month while Italy processes their asylum claims.
  • Meloni's visit included tours of the migrant centers, which are set to be operational by August.
  • The agreement has sparked debate, with human rights groups concerned about refugee protections and opposition calling it propaganda.
  • The plan aims to deter illegal crossings and has drawn interest from other EU nations.
  • The centers, funded by Italy, will cost approximately $730 million over five years.