Meloni and Frederiksen call for end to uncontrolled immigration

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen have issued a joint message to Europe calling for an end to ‘uncontrolled immigration’. The leaders stated that illegal immigration has negative impacts on societies, including increased crime rates, pressure on public services, and the erosion of citizen trust. They advocated for the creation of repatriation centers in third countries and other innovative solutions outside of Europe to protect European values and cultural heritage.

Simultaneously, tensions have emerged between Rome and Berlin regarding the deportation of migrants. Germany intends to begin returning asylum seekers to Italy starting August 19, citing the Dublin system and a new migration pact. However, the Italian government has refused, invoking a 2025 bilateral agreement that reportedly cancels transfers for cases filed before June 12. Rome is also requesting that individuals rescued by NGOs be included in distribution quotas.