Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has made fighting illegal immigration the cornerstone of her foreign policy. This focus has led to a notable decrease in migrant arrivals on Italian shores, with a 61% reduction in migration flows on the Central Mediterranean route. Meloni’s approach, involving economic partnerships with African countries and strong border controls, has garnered praise from European leaders and is seen as a model strategy.
By partnering with Tunisia and leveraging migration as a tool of international influence, Meloni has positioned Italy as a key player in the immigration debate. Her methods, including building detention centers in Albania, have gained support from prominent figures like Ursula von der Leyen and Keir Starmer. This proactive stance has also helped Meloni foster unity within the European Council on migration issues.
Tackling the causes of migration flows
Meloni’s proactive approach to migration, focusing on external dimensions, has bridged gaps and garnered support for her policies. By addressing migration from this angle, she has navigated internal conflicts within Europe and gained approval for her strategies, setting a precedent for other European nations to follow.