The accord finalized on December 8th at the EU Council concerning the revised European regulation on repatriation represents a significant development, notably reflecting Italian influence. The legislation, which intends to accelerate and improve repatriation proceedings for third-country nationals residing illegally, explicitly allows Member States to construct "repatriation hubs" in third nations. This strategy precisely replicates the model already explored by Italy, which was the first EU country to outsource elements of its repatriation administration to facilities built in Albania, sparking heated political and legal discussion at both the national and European levels. The regulation adopted by the Twenty-seven establishes unified procedures across the EU, enhances the responsibilities of migrants subject to a return order, and broadens the range of tools available to Member States, including lengthier detention durations and extended entry bans. The core of the agreement lies in the framework that facilitates arrangements with third countries for the administration of repatriations, on the condition that they adhere to international human rights standards and the principle of non-refoulement. The hubs will be able to function as both transit and ultimate destinations. This confirms the Italian government's approach over the past few months. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi describes it as a "turning point" and asserts that the new European regulations are "aligned with the measures already implemented by Italy", beginning with the protocol with Tirana. The opposition sees the agreement as an ex post legitimization of practices that have already been criticized in the Albanian case. According to +Europa Secretary Riccardo Magi, the Council's decision “paves the way for illegal Albania-style outsourcing" which violates the Geneva Convention and Article 78 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU.