Italy to Reward Lawyers Who Persuade Migrants to Return

The government of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has proposed financial bonuses for lawyers who persuade migrants to return voluntarily to their countries of origin. The measure forms part of a security law that has already passed the upper house of parliament and is awaiting final approval, according to the Guardian.

The coalition has earmarked €246,000 ($266,000) for the incentives this year, with funding set to nearly double between 2027 and 2028. The bill also removes the right to state-funded legal aid when migrants challenge deportation decisions.

Available data suggest lawyers could earn around €615 ($665) per successful case. Payment would be made only after the client has left the country.

Critics warn the system could undermine the independence of legal aid and create pressure for outcomes aligned with the state.

Legal organizations and judges have raised concerns about a potential breach of the constitution and a threat to migrants’ rights. The opposition has likened the proposal to the “Wild West” and warned it could erode the rule of law.

(mja)