A recent report by Italy’s Openpolis research institute sheds light on the financial implications of the agreement between Italy and Albania to process asylum claims outside the European Union. The analysis reveals that the deal, struck in February, is estimated to incur costs amounting to €653 million over the first five years of implementation.
The report outlines that a significant portion of this expenditure, totaling €252 million, will be allocated to cover travel expenses for officials from the Italian ministries of interior, justice, and health commuting between the two countries. The agreement entails the establishment of two facilities in Albania: an initial reception center in Shengjin and a hotspot and pre-removal center in Gjader, both situated in the northern region of the country.
While the facilities are slated to commence operations on May 20, the report suggests that the initial hosting capacity may be limited compared to the eventual capacity upon full operationalization. Openpolis highlights concerns regarding the substantial financial investment, questioning its effectiveness in facilitating repatriations or enhancing logistical support and integration for individuals granted international protection.
The analysis underscores that management expenses for the facilities are projected to amount to approximately €30 million over five years, leaving a significant portion of the total expenditure unrelated to operational costs. Notable expenses include €95 million for vessel rentals, nearly €8 million for health insurance coverage for Italian personnel working abroad, and €252 million for official transfers.
The report criticizes the “exorbitant” nature of these expenses, equating to €138,000 per day, primarily attributed to travel allowances, accommodations, and operational costs for personnel working abroad. Openpolis suggests that such expenditures could be mitigated if personnel operated from their usual workplace instead of abroad, raising questions about the efficiency and utilization of resources within the framework of the asylum-seeker deal.