The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ruled against Italy's proposal to fast-track asylum applications in Albania, citing violations of EU law regarding the definition of 'safe countries.' Under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's initiative, intercepted migrants were to be sent straight to Albania for swift processing, with plans for rapid deportation of those rejected within a week. However, the ECJ stated that only nations offering thorough protection to everyone can be deemed 'safe.'

Italy currently lists countries like Egypt and Bangladesh as safe, yet acknowledges the need for protection for certain groups in these regions. The court's decision prompted outrage from Italian officials, who claimed it undermined national border security.

Katia Scannavini from ActionAid Italy criticized the ruling, suggesting it jeopardizes the integrity of the Albania model, originally designed as a cornerstone of Meloni's stringent immigration policy. Previous attempts to send migrants to Albania have encountered legal challenges, resulting in their return to Italy.

While the ECJ does not oppose offshore processing in principle, it mandates that the legal framework must comply with EU legislation before implementation. Amnesty International's Adriana Tidona labeled the Albania agreement a human rights violation, arguing its reliance on automatic detention violates international standards.

As the EU gears up to introduce a common list of 'safe countries' next year, uncertainties arise over the future of Italy's migrant protocols, emphasizing that judicial oversight will dictate the application of EU law over political definitions. The court underlined that judges must prioritize EU statutes, potentially complicating Italy's immigration policies moving forward.