UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has begun his official visit to Rome, where migration issues are at the top of the agenda. Starmer expressed interest in Italy’s approach to migration, particularly how the country handles asylum claims by sending rescued migrants to Albania for processing. He wants to understand Italy’s strategy in reducing the number of people making dangerous sea crossings to Europe. The UK is currently grappling with its own migration challenges, with many migrants crossing the English Channel from France.
During the meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Starmer hopes to learn how Italy managed to drastically cut migrant arrivals despite being one of the European Union’s main entry points. Meloni’s government has seen a 64% drop in migrant numbers this year, with just over 43,000 arriving, compared to nearly 158,000 the previous year. Key to this reduction has been Italy’s financial agreements with North African countries, including Tunisia and Libya, which have helped secure their borders and reduce the flow of people heading to Europe. The European Union has supported these deals by providing funding to Tunisia and training its coastguard.
The UK, meanwhile, has seen an increase in migrants crossing the Channel, with recent incidents like the tragic boat capsizing that claimed eight lives highlighting the urgency of the issue. Starmer and Meloni’s discussions also touch on other migration measures, including the controversial reception centers Italy is building in Albania. These centers will allow up to 36,000 migrants per year to apply for asylum in Italy. If their applications are rejected, they will face deportation. Starmer’s interest in Italy’s model reflects his desire to explore potential solutions for the UK.
Despite criticism from human rights groups regarding the treatment of migrants in North Africa, both Italy and the EU continue to work with countries like Tunisia and Libya. However, this approach has sparked debate, with some EU officials and members of the European Parliament questioning the ethics of these deals. Starmer’s meeting with Meloni signals a focus on understanding and possibly adopting Italy’s migration management strategies.
The UK’s position on migration is further complicated by its departure from the EU, making it difficult to collaborate with countries like France. Starmer sees Italy as a possible ally in managing migration, as he seeks effective solutions for the challenges facing the UK. Both he and Meloni, despite their political differences, recognize the importance of addressing irregular migration, and Starmer’s visit underscores the ongoing efforts to find workable solutions.