Albania Centres May Become Repatriation Hubs Amidst Legal Setbacks

Rome: The government is considering a plan to transform two controversial Italian-run centres in Albania into repatriation centres (CPRs) to maintain their operation following a legal impasse in Italy. This development comes after Italian courts blocked a protocol designed for the fast-track processing of asylum seekers at these facilities, several newspapers reported on Monday.

According to Ansa News Agency, the two centres located in Shengjin and Gjader currently stand empty. This situation arose after Italian courts failed to validate the detention of the first three groups of migrants who were transferred there in October, November, and January. The proposal to repurpose these centres was reportedly discussed at a high-level meeting last Friday, which included Premier Giorgia Meloni, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, and Cabinet Undersecretary. The plan could potentially be implemented through a new decree.

Press reports indicate that another meeting may be held on Monday to further deliberate on the proposal. Under the new framework, the centres, initially built to accommodate migrants rescued by Italian Navy ships in the Mediterranean for expedited border procedures, could now serve as facilities for irregular migrants already in Italy who are subject to expulsion orders.

Additionally, the cabinet is exploring alternatives to detention for migrants seeking international protection. One such measure includes the use of electronic bracelets to monitor these individuals, as reported by the Rome daily Il Messaggero.