Starmer Holds Migration Talks with Albania as UK Small-Boat Crossings Hit Record

Sir Keir Starmer is focusing on cracking down on migrant smuggling gangs in the Balkans, especially in Albania, as part of a broader strategy to control UK borders and reduce illegal Channel crossings. During his visit to Albania, the first by a UK prime minister, Starmer reinforced cooperation with Albanian officials, highlighting a 95% reduction in small boat arrivals from Albania over the past three years and a doubling in the number of returnees. He unveiled plans to expand the use of UK technology, such as anti-forgery machines and DNA analysis, to detect criminals and fake documents, and to enhance monitoring efforts with drones. Starmer also addressed the challenge of migrants reoffending after return, supporting reintegration programs in northern Albania to provide employment and reduce repeat attempts to enter the UK. Although Starmer proposed establishing overseas 'return hubs' to process failed asylum seekers, Albania declined to host them, citing their unique relationship with Italy and geographical considerations. The UK government continues to engage with other Balkan countries, including Serbia, Bosnia, North Macedonia, and Kosovo, to strengthen efforts against people-smuggling networks and illegal migration.