In the news
On 18 September, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni implemented strict measures over a recent surge in migrant arrivals. The measures include extending the detention period for illegal migrants from three to up to 18 months and constructing new detention centres for those arriving without visas. 

On 17 September, during her visit to Lampedusa, EU President Ursula von der Leyen stated: “Migration is a European challenge and it needs a European answer and solution.” Meloni stated: “The ‘problem’ of migrants crossing the Mediterranean to Europe cannot be solved by redistributing migrants within European borders but rather requires tackling the problem externally and preventing the departure of migrants.” 

On 14 September, the Associated Press quoted the Italian Red Cross report on the arrival of 6,800 migrants on Italy’s Island of Lampedusa, 100 kilometres off the coast of Tunisia. These migrants arrived in unseaworthy boats in a span of 24 hours. Authorities faced challenges in transferring them to the mainland. 

Italian Minister of Interior, Matteo Piantedosi, discussed the increasing number of migrants in Lampedusa, with the European Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, highlighting the need for a new European strategy against human traffickers.   

Issues at large
First, the migrant issue in the Mediterranean. According to the EU border agency, Frontex, the Central Mediterranean is the most active route for migrants into the EU this year with nearly 114,300 arrivals reported by national authorities in the first eight months of 2023. The Central Mediterranean route runs from Libya and Tunisia to Italy and Malta, a popular route for Sub-Saharan African migrants reaching Tunisia. The Eastern Mediterranean route that connects Turkey to Greece, is primarily used by Syrian refugees. Additionally, Migrants aim for Spanish autonomous Canary Islands via the Western Mediterranean route from eastern Morocco and the Atlantic route from western Morocco. Migrants using these routes also face challenges including overcrowded and perilous vessels, exploitation by traffickers, violence, and limited rescue capabilities.

Second, Italy’s migrant crisis. According to the Italian government, nearly 127,000 refugees and migrants reached the country this year. This figure is double compared to 2022, during the same period. Italy’s escalating migrant crisis has triggered protests among Lampedusa residents. Far-right parties including Brothers of Italy and the League emphasise security threats relating to the migrant influx, reviving narratives of criminalising migration. The crisis has overwhelmed Lampedusa’s facilities, prompting concerns about humanitarian conditions. The island’s migrant reception centre capacity is only 400; however, currently, it is hosting 4,000 people, causing devastation. 

Third, the divided debate within the EU. Von der Leyen visited Lampedusa, promising to take action on the migrant crisis. However, the EU’s response has been slow due to disagreements among member countries over the deal between the EU and Tunisia to address irregular migration. According to the deal, the EU promised an aid package worth USD 1,01 million to Tunisia as the country struggles with economic crisis and an influx of migrants and refugees seeking to reach Europe. 

In perspective
First, the increasing migrant crossings in the Mediterranean. The increasing influx of migrants from multiple Mediterranean routes is likely to put significant pressure on regional actors, border security and humanitarian efforts. Additionally, climate disasters also contribute to migration. Recent floods in Libya may further increase the influx of migrants. 

Second, the effect on Italy. The escalating influx of migrants in Italy is straining resources, sparking political debates on security. It is raising humanitarian concerns, posing challenges pertaining to both the social cohesion and the political in the country.

Third, the impact of the divide within the EU. EU debates might affect cooperation among member states impacting migrant reception. It will further delay a cohesive and effective response to the Mediterranean migrant crisis. It will potentially deepen the humanitarian and political challenges faced by the region. Finding common ground among member countries will be essential to address this complex and multifaceted issue.