A new study by the Spanish Institute for Migration Analysis (IEAM) advocates that Spain adopt an Italian-Algerian partnership model to manage migration, particularly in response to challenges posed by Morocco. The IEAM study suggests this approach could help Spain address issues with the Moroccan regime, which it claims frequently uses illegal migration as a pressure tactic against Madrid for political objectives, especially regarding Western Sahara, Ceuta, and Melilla. The Spanish institute stated that "legal migration pathways, job opportunities, training, and improving economic and security conditions in source countries should be provided." The study argues, "Algeria is considered an unavoidable partner in managing Mediterranean migration, and the Italian model in dealing with Algeria is considered the most appropriate for the rest of the European countries."
The Italian-Algerian Partnership
Algeria maintains significant cooperation with Italy concerning migration. According to El Independiente, Italy leads all other European Union countries in its collaboration with Algeria on migration issues. Italian authorities have developed a full cooperation framework with Algeria, which encompasses the prevention of illegal migrants, a strong security dimension, border control measures, and overall migration flow management. Consequently, Algeria has emerged as a key partner for Italy in the Mediterranean region. The Italian model for engaging with Algeria is deemed the most suitable approach for other European countries to adopt. Regular meetings are held between the Algerian and Italian Ministers of Interior to facilitate this ongoing partnership. Rome views Algeria not only as a vital gas supplier but also as an essential security ally on the southern shore of the Mediterranean and within the Sahel region.
Algeria's Unique Role
Algeria manages its migration file differently from Morocco, consistently refusing to enter into general memoranda with the European Union on the issue. Instead, Algeria addresses migration through bilateral agreements. The country functions not only as a transit point for migrants heading towards Spain and Europe but also as a receiving country and a significant security actor in migration management. Algeria's geographical location makes it an essential component of the European migration system, particularly as its borders with Mali, Niger, and Libya are in direct contact with regions experiencing pressures and mixed migration flows. The study states, "Algeria is considered an unavoidable partner in managing Mediterranean migration, and the Italian model in dealing with Algeria is considered the most appropriate for the rest of the European countries, which helped the newspaper formulate a triple equation stating that migration, gas, and security make Algeria, from the Spanish point of view, a fundamental actor in North Africa, differing from the role played by the Moroccan regime in this regard." From a Spanish perspective, the confluence of migration, gas, and security concerns positions Algeria as a fundamental actor in North Africa.
Beyond Prevention: Broader Solutions
Combating illegal migration cannot rely exclusively on preventing the arrival of undocumented individuals to European territory, according to the Spanish Institute for Migration Analysis (IEAM). The institute emphasizes that alternative solutions are necessary to address the complexities of migration flows. The Spanish institute stated that "legal migration pathways, job opportunities, training, and improving economic and security conditions in source countries should be provided." These broader approaches are seen as key for sustainable management. The IEAM suggests that merely warning of the risks associated with the wave of illegal migrants is no longer sufficient as a primary deterrent tool. A more full strategy is required beyond just prevention.
Context and Future Outlook
Italy preceded Spain in developing relations with Algeria, benefiting from energy, particularly gas, before other European nations. Bilateral relations between Spain and Algeria have also seen a noticeable improvement since early 2026. A coordination mechanism involving Italy, Algeria, Libya, and Tunisia has been active since 2024, focusing on security cooperation, combating terrorism, and human trafficking.