Italy plans tougher anti-immigration measures
Speaking at a press conference after a cabinet meeting, Piantedosi said the proposal will form part of a broader package of immigration rules. The measures are intended to align Italy’s domestic legislation with new European Union migration regulations due to come into force by June.
“Next week, a broader package of immigration regulations will be evaluated, to support the entry into force of the new European immigration rules,” Piantedosi said. He added that the package would include what he described as a “journalistic” naval blockade.
Transfer of migrants to ‘safe’ third-countries
The minister said this would involve the closure of Italy’s territorial waters to migrant vessels. He also said the plan would allow for the transfer of migrants to other locations to process asylum claims, where agreements exist with so-called safe third countries.
Under the proposal, asylum procedures could take place outside Italian territory, reflecting a model already under discussion at European level. Italy has previously pointed to arrangements with countries such as Albania as part of efforts to reduce pressure on its reception system.
The announcement comes as Italy continues to push for stronger external border controls within the EU. The Meloni government has consistently argued that frontline states should not be left to manage arrivals alone and has called for faster returns and greater cooperation with countries of origin and transit.
The concept of a naval blockade has been politically sensitive in Italy. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni used the term during the 2022 election campaign, although officials later clarified that any anti-immigration measures would comply with international law and maritime rescue obligations.
Piantedosi’s comments suggest the government intends to formalise elements of that approach within the framework of the EU’s new migration pact. The legislation is expected to spark debate both domestically and in Brussels, particularly over its compatibility with international asylum law and freedom of navigation.
Further details of the bill are expected to be released when it is formally presented to parliament next week.
