Luxembourg: The European Court of Justice (ECJ) announced on Tuesday that a hearing has been provisionally scheduled for February concerning the issue of countries of safe origin. This matter has come to the forefront following recent decisions by Italian courts to halt the detention of initial groups of migrants sent to processing centers in Albania, as part of Italy’s innovative yet contentious deterrence policy.
According to Ansa News Agency, there are currently twelve preliminary references regarding the designation of countries of safe origin pending before the EU Court of Justice. These references have been submitted by various Italian courts. Notably, no case has been assigned a special urgent procedure at this time. While ten of these referrals have been suspended, the Court will focus on two joined cases that will proceed under an accelerated procedure, with a hearing for party discussions expected around February 2025.
The policy, championed by Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, aims to address migra
nt arrivals. Despite criticisms regarding its limited scope-covering only an estimated 2% of arrivals-and its potential high costs, the policy has garnered attention and support from figures like European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. However, it has faced significant legal challenges, with courts hindering its implementation.
Further complicating the issue, Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and an ally of Meloni, stirred controversy by suggesting judicial changes, stating, “these judges must go.” Musk, who holds a friendship with Meloni, defended his right to express his views, receiving support from Matteo Salvini. Salvini, who serves as the deputy premier and transport minister, is currently dealing with legal issues of his own, facing potential imprisonment for his actions against migrants during his tenure as interior minister.
