Albania's Constitutional Court Upholds Controversial Agreement with Italy to Host Migrant Centers Despite Criticism

 Albania's Constitutional Court has upheld a controversial agreement with Italy to host two migrant holding centers in Albanian territory. The agreement has faced criticism from rights groups and opposition parties in both countries, with claims that it could be detrimental to national security. The lower house of parliament in Italy approved the protocol, with the Senate also expected to give its approval. The centers near the Albanian port of Shengjin would accommodate up to 3,000 migrants each month and cost more than 650 million euros over a five-year period.

Opponents of the deal in Albania believe it lacks transparency and poses a threat to national security, while rights groups have labeled it dehumanizing and illegal. However, Albanian officials argue that the agreement is in line with the country's constitution, international regulations, and previous treaties with Italy. According to Albanian authorities, Italy will cover the construction costs of the centers, along with expenses for security and medical care for asylum seekers.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who was elected on the promise to stop migrant boats arriving from North Africa, has faced criticism as the number of migrant landings has continued to rise. Despite the controversy, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has described the agreement as a gesture of solidarity with Italy, a country that welcomed thousands of Albanian refugees following the overthrow of the Communist dictatorship in the early 1990s.