Albanians who voluntarily return to their home country from Britain are reportedly receiving financial assistance, a move that coincides with a significant drop in illegal crossings. This initiative is part of a broader bilateral agreement aimed at managing migration flows between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- Albanians returning voluntarily from the UK receive approximately £1,200.
- The UK-Albania repatriation scheme has led to a 95% decrease in Albanian arrivals via small boats.
- Many returnees express a desire to return to the UK legally due to limited job opportunities in Albania.
Voluntary Returns and Financial Incentives
Recent reports indicate that Albanians choosing to return from Britain are being provided with financial aid. This support, amounting to around £1,200, is distributed via bank cards upon arrival in Albania. The aim is to help them restart their lives, though many find the economic situation challenging.
Impact on Migration Flows
Since a deal struck between the UK and Albania in 2022, over 13,000 Albanians have been deported. This has resulted in a dramatic 95% reduction in arrivals via small boats. Albanians are now the most frequently deported nationality from the UK. The agreement has also involved increased intelligence sharing and a joint task force to combat smuggling networks.
Challenges Faced by Returnees
Despite the financial assistance, many Albanians returning from the UK face significant difficulties. They often return with debts incurred from people smugglers and legal fees. Job opportunities in Albania are scarce, leading to a sense of disillusionment and a strong desire to return to the UK, but through legal channels. One returnee, who spent 18 months in prison in the UK before being deported, expressed a wish to go back legally, stating, "If given the chance, in less than 24 hours I’ll get the f*** out of here again. But with papers, not illegally."
Socioeconomic Context in Albania
Albania, particularly its northern regions like Kukes, is one of Europe’s poorer countries. Emigration to Britain has been a significant trend, with some towns losing up to half their population. The UK’s influence is visible in these areas, with many businesses and even street names reflecting British connections. While migration is a major political issue in the UK, in Albania, it is often viewed as a social issue, carrying a sense of shame for those who return after failing to establish themselves abroad.
Future of the Agreement
The UK continues to seek ways to manage migration, with proposals for Albania to host returns for failed asylum seekers from other countries being met with refusal from the Albanian government. While the flow of Albanians to the UK via illegal routes has slowed, it has not entirely stopped, with some returnees attempting to re-enter the UK through different means.
