Albania Parliament approves controversial deal with Italy on asylum-seeking immigrants

Albania’s Parliament approves a divisive deal with Italy to establish migrant holding centers amidst opposition criticism and human rights concerns

Albania’s Parliament approved a controversial deal with Italy on Thursday to establish two holding centers for migrants rescued in Italian waters.

The deal was passed with the support of 77 out of 140 MPs despite the opposition boycotting the vote.

Right-wing opposition leader Gazmend Bardhi criticized the agreement, stating, “The migrant deal harms national security, territorial integrity, and the public’s interest.”

The deal has faced regular denunciation from opposition parties and rights groups in both countries, leading to a legal challenge in Albania’s top court. However, the constitutional court endorsed the deal late last month, clearing the way for the parliamentary vote.

Italian MPs had earlier voted in favor of the agreement, with the lower chamber approving it by 155 votes to 115, with two abstentions.

The deal involves the construction of two centers near the Albanian port of Shengjin. Italy will manage these centers and can accommodate up to 3,000 people at a time while their asylum claims are processed. Additionally, a facility in the same region will house those awaiting responses to their applications.

Organizations like the International Rescue Committee and Amnesty International have condemned the agreement, labeling it “dehumanizing” and “illegal and unenforceable.” In contrast, Albanian authorities assert that the deal aligns with previous treaties with Italy and adheres to international law and Albania’s constitution.

Italy will finance the construction of the centers and cover expenses related to security and medical care for asylum seekers. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, elected in 2022 on a platform of curbing migrant arrivals from North Africa, faces increasing pressure as migrant landings rose from around 105,000 in 2022 to nearly 158,000 last year, according to official figures.