UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced a diplomatic embarrassment in Albania after his host, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, publicly shut down the UK’s proposal to establish a Rwanda-style “return hub” on Albanian soil for failed asylum seekers. The moment, which unfolded during a joint press conference in Tirana, undermined Starmer’s bid to present a robust new approach to immigration and border enforcement.
Starmer’s Announcement of Rwanda-Style ‘Return Hubs’
UK Plan to Deport Failed Asylum Seekers Abroad
Earlier that day, Starmer announced that the UK had initiated talks with several countries to create overseas “return hubs” that would receive failed asylum seekers who have exhausted all legal appeals in Britain. The idea is part of a new strategy aimed at deterring illegal Channel crossings by fast-tracking deportations and avoiding protracted legal delays.
Strategy to Reduce Channel Crossings
The proposed scheme echoes the controversial Rwanda plan put forward by the previous Conservative government, albeit with significant differences. Starmer emphasized that this new model would only target those already rejected by the UK asylum system—not fresh arrivals.
Albania Visit Undermined by Public Rejection
Joint Press Conference Turns Awkward
However, just moments after Starmer floated the possibility of Albania’s participation, Edi Rama quickly put the brakes on the idea. Speaking alongside Starmer, the Albanian Prime Minister declared that his country would not host a return hub for the UK.
Edi Rama Confirms Albania Won’t Participate
“We have been very clear from day one,” Rama said. “This was a one-off with Italy because of our very close relations and geographical situation. It makes a lot of sense for Italy—not for others.” The stark response was seen as a direct snub to Starmer’s carefully staged announcement.
Rama: Italy Deal Was a ‘One-Off’
Close Ties and Geography Cited for Italy Agreement
Rama’s government previously struck a migration deal with Italy, which includes the establishment of a processing centre in Albania for migrants intercepted by Italian authorities. He clarified that the Italian deal should not be seen as a precedent for broader European cooperation on the issue.
Clear Signal to UK: “Not Happening Here”
Rama’s remarks leave little doubt: Albania will not be replicating its agreement with Italy for the UK. For Starmer, the timing and setting of the rejection added to the political fallout.
UK’s Other Target Countries for ‘Hubs’
Reports Suggest Talks with Serbia, Bosnia, North Macedonia
Though Starmer declined to name the countries involved in ongoing negotiations, reports suggest that the UK is also in discussions with Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia. These nations are seen as potential partners due to their geographic proximity to key migration routes.
Starmer Refuses to Name Nations Involved
Pressed by journalists, Starmer insisted that further details would be provided “at the appropriate time,” adding that premature disclosure could jeopardize delicate negotiations.
Domestic Reaction to the Rebuff
Critics Seize on ‘Humiliation Abroad’
Political opponents in the UK were quick to pounce on the diplomatic blunder. Conservative MPs labelled it “humiliating” and accused Starmer of pursuing policies without securing concrete agreements beforehand. “You don’t announce deals that don’t exist,” one critic said.
Starmer Defends Broader Migration Strategy
Despite the setback, Starmer maintained that the wider strategy to reduce illegal migration remains on course. “We’re having good discussions with other countries,” he said. “This is about tackling the problem with pragmatism, not gimmicks.”
Migration Cooperation Continues
Success in Slashing Albanian Crossings by 95%
While Albania has rejected the hub idea, cooperation on broader migration enforcement continues. The UK government pointed out that crossings by Albanian nationals have fallen by 95% since 2022, thanks in part to joint policing and intelligence-sharing efforts.
Plans to Expand Task Force to Other Balkan Nations
Starmer also confirmed plans to expand the Joint Migration Task Force—which currently includes the UK and Albania—to include countries like North Macedonia. Additional measures include increased data sharing, including DNA evidence, to aid in the prosecution and deportation of criminal offenders.
Conclusion
Keir Starmer’s attempt to unveil a bold new migration policy during a high-profile visit to Albania was marred by a public rebuke from Prime Minister Edi Rama. Though the broader migration cooperation between the two nations remains intact, the rejection of the ‘return hub’ plan has raised fresh questions about the viability of outsourcing immigration enforcement without firm international support. For now, Starmer faces mounting pressure at home to deliver on immigration promises with tangible results, not just diplomatic intentions.
FAQs
- What was Keir Starmer proposing in Albania?
He proposed the creation of ‘return hubs’ abroad, where failed asylum seekers from the UK could be sent for processing and deportation. - Did Albania agree to the plan?
No. Prime Minister Edi Rama publicly rejected the idea, saying their similar deal with Italy was a unique, one-off agreement. - Are other countries being considered for return hubs?
Yes. Reports suggest the UK is in talks with Serbia, Bosnia, and North Macedonia, though no official agreements have been announced. - How has this affected UK-Albania relations?
While the hub proposal was rejected, both countries continue to cooperate on reducing illegal migration and organized crime. - What impact does this have on Starmer’s immigration policy?
It’s a political setback, raising doubts about the feasibility of the proposed system. Critics say it shows a lack of preparation and international buy-in.
