Details of the Migrant Transfer
The migrants, mostly from Bangladesh, Egypt, Ivory Coast, and Gambia, were intercepted on the high seas while attempting to reach Italy. They were taken aboard the Italian Navy’s Patrol ‘Cassiopea’ and transported to the Albanian port of Shëngjin.
Reception and Evaluation Process
Upon arrival, the migrants will undergo a reception, detention, and evaluation process, as agreed upon by the Italian Interior Ministry and Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama. This process will include a deep medical examination to identify any vulnerable individuals, who will then be transferred to Italy.
Accelerated Border Procedure
The 49 migrants selected for this procedure are from countries considered safe by Italy, and will be subject to an accelerated border procedure. This is the third attempt by the Italian government to implement this plan, which has faced criticism and legal challenges in the past.
Conditions at the Gjader Internment Center
After evaluation, the migrants will be sent to the Gjader Internment Center, which has a capacity for 3,000 people per month. The center is equipped with surveillance cameras and surrounded by a seven-meter-high wall topped with wire. Italy financed the construction of the center, and the Italian government manages it, while the Albanian police monitor the outer perimeter.
Previous Attempts and Controversies
The first two attempts to transfer migrants to Albania were unsuccessful, as the Italian justice system did not validate the shipments, citing concerns about the safety of the countries of origin. The Italian Supreme Court has since ruled that the government has the authority to determine which countries are safe, and that judges cannot systematically invalidate migrant detentions. Despite this, the centers in Albania have remained largely empty, sparking criticism about the expenses incurred by the Italian government.