Asylum Abroad: Merz and Meloni Mull Over Joint Efforts to Tighten EU Migration Policy
Migration Integration Proposal by Merz and Meloni
In a bid to strengthen ties with Italy, Chancellor Merz stepped foot in Rome proposing joint ventures with third countries to stamp out illegal immigration into the European Union. Merz and Prime Minister Meloni pledged to take firm action against irregular migration into the EU, stressing that the German government would no longer impede stricter EU migration regulations.
Merzpled his support for Italy's stance on irregular immigration, saying, "We have agreed to tackle the issue of irregular migration into the EU more forcefully than ever." During a joint press conference with Meloni, he added that swift implementation of restrictive European asylum policies was a priority for the new German administration.
The leaders also agreed to increase cooperation with third countries in the context of secondary migration, with Merz acknowledging the positive impact of Italy's recent partnerships with some Mediterranean neighbors. "Such initiatives are commendable and we wholly support them from Germany," Merz shared.
Controversy Surrounding the Albanian Model
In light of a deal struck between Italy and EU candidate Albania, migrants intercepted in the Mediterranean are set to be relocated to Albanian reception centers while awaiting asylum processing. While the plan is contentious and has faced legal hurdles, Merz suggested that it could still serve as a possibility for addressing the migration conundrum.
Merz voiced awareness of the legal hurdles the Italian government has faced in connection to the wide-ranging Albanian arrangement. "We are mindful of the legal obstacles posed by Italy's partnership with Albania," he explained. Despite the challenges, Merz noted, "This strategy could be an option in contributing to the reduction of overall migration."
The leaders emphasized the strong bond between their nations, with Merz remarking, "Germany and Italy share a deep bond that transcends decades."
Enrichment Data:
- Third-Country Partnership
- Merz's proposal to join forces with third countries in managing immigration is not a new concept and has been employed by various EU nations, including Italy and Greece, to address the escalating migration issue.
- Albanian Model
- The Albanian model, as Merz alluded to, pertains to the Italian-Albanian agreement of 2023, which aimed to relocate non-vulnerable asylum seekers from "safe countries" to Albanian centers for processing. These centers were initially built to accommodate international water rescues but have since been converted into return hubs for migrants whose asylum applications have been denied in Italy.
- Legal Challenges
- The Albanian model has faced significant legal challenges due to concerns over its compatibility with European and Albanian law, human rights, and the potential for sparking grave human rights violations. Moreover, the European Commission has previously deemed such externally located return centers unlawful, raising questions about their legitimacy and highlighting the complexities and challenges associated with implementing such agreements. Over 100 human rights organizations have also expressed apprehension about the possibility of human rights abuses and the normalization of questionable practices by third-country authorities.
- Merz and Meloni have agreed to collaborate with third countries, like Italy has previously done with Greece, in an attempt to combat illegal migration into the European Union, especially through the implementation of stricter EU employment and asylum policies.
- Despite facing legal hurdles, Merz sees potential in the Albanian model, where migrants are relocated to Albanian reception centers while awaiting asylum processing, as it could be a possible solution in reducing overall migration to the European Union.
