The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has successfully influenced the European Union's immigration policy following the recent approval of significant amendments to EU asylum regulations by the European Parliament. The changes, passed by a wide majority, are designed to expedite the verification of asylum applications, thereby allowing for quicker processing and repatriation of irregular migrants. This move reflects a shift in the EU's approach to managing migration and underscores Italy's prominent role in shaping these policies.

Notably, the new regulations expand the list of countries deemed safe, which gives EU member states the authority to fast-track asylum applications from individuals hailing from these nations. Additionally, the regulations formally endorse the 'Albania model,' allowing the establishment of processing hubs in third countries. This strategy is likely to transform the landscape of European migration management significantly by delegating part of the asylum process to non-EU countries, which Italy is keen to utilize as a means of curbing irregular immigration to European shores.

The approval of the regulations also highlights rifts within the European left, with ten socialist MEPs breaking rank to vote with the European People's Party, Conservatives, and Patriots. This incident reflects internal discord within the left and a weakening of its unified front on immigration issues, which may have broader implications for future coalitions and policy-making within the EU. As Italy takes the lead in this regard, it may push other EU nations to reassess their own immigration policies, potentially leading to a more fragmented political landscape in Europe concerning migration and asylum.