Italy’s cabinet has passed a decree allowing the government to amend the list of safe countries from which migrants arrive, overcoming legal obstacles in implementing the controversial migration deal with Albania. The deal, aimed at limiting migrant arrivals, was put into doubt by a court ruling in Rome, questioning the safety of repatriating migrants to their countries of origin.
After being forced to return 12 migrants due to the court ruling, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni convened her cabinet to find a legislative solution. The new legislation, drafted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of the Interior, and the Ministry of Justice, proposes updating the list of safe countries every six months.
The court’s decision, upheld by the European Court of Justice, has sparked a debate over government versus judiciary authority in determining safe countries. Meloni’s party argues that the government should have the final say on such matters within the framework of international law. The scheme between Italy and Albania, involving offshore migrant processing centers in Shengjin, has garnered interest from other European countries.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has hinted at potential endorsement for the scheme, while the Italian opposition parties have criticized it as unlawful and called for its cancellation.
The ongoing controversy surrounding the migration deal highlights the complexities of international migration policies and the delicate balance between government decision-making and judicial oversight.
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