A dispute has emerged between Italy and Germany over the transfer of asylum seekers under EU migration rules, highlighting differing interpretations of the Dublin Regulation and the new European asylum system.

Germany is seeking to transfer migrants back to Italy under the Dublin Regulation, which mandates that asylum seekers must apply for asylum in the first EU country they enter. However, Italy has refused to accept these transfers, citing an overwhelmed reception system and disagreements over the application of the new Common European Asylum System (GEAS), which came into effect in June.

The case of a 22-year-old Somali woman has become emblematic of the conflict. After fleeing forced marriage and arriving in Italy in March, she traveled to Germany, where she has family. Germany now seeks to return her to Italy, but Italian officials argue that she falls under an ‘old case’ category exempt from transfer due to prior agreements. This disagreement underscores broader tensions over how to handle cases predating the GEAS implementation.

Experts note that Italy and Germany interpret the rules differently, particularly regarding whether Italy must accept migrants who entered the EU before June or only those arriving after the system’s introduction. The ongoing dispute reflects deeper challenges in achieving a unified European approach to migration, with Italy demanding compensation and greater support to address its strained asylum infrastructure.