First deportation transfer under Italy-Albania migration deal: 40 migrants to arrive in Shëngjin today

The Italian government has begun implementing its migration deal with Albania, with the first group of 40 migrants expected to arrive this afternoon at the Port of Shëngjin aboard the Italian patrol ship Libra. The individuals are being transferred under deportation orders and will be held in Albania pending repatriation.

Why this is important: This marks a shift in how the Italy-Albania agreement is applied. Originally intended for processing asylum seekers rescued at sea, the Gjadër center will now also serve as a holding facility for individuals who have exhausted legal avenues in Italy and are awaiting deportation. Migrants can now be held there for up to 18 months while return arrangements are made.

Context: The ship Libra departed the port of Brindisi shortly before 9:00 a.m. and is scheduled to dock in Shëngjin around 5:00 p.m. The identities and nationalities of the 40 migrants on board have not been made public. Italian media outlet La Repubblica was the first to report the transfer.

According to Albanian and Italian authorities, all identification and security screening procedures were carried out in Italy prior to departure. Once ashore, the migrants will be transferred directly to the Gjadër center in Lezha, which has been designated for use under Italy’s migration enforcement strategy.

What else: Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi has defended the policy, stating it has helped reduce irregular migration to Italy and presents a model for regional cooperation on migration management.

Under the updated Italian decree, the Gjadër center — initially set up for short-term holding of asylum seekers — is now also authorized to detain deportees until their countries of origin agree to take them back.