Italy, Malta to Libya: Increase Steps to End Illegal Immigration

By Nykoel Dinardo
Impunity Watch Reporter, Middle East

TRIPOLI, Libya - Italy and Malta have put increased pressure on Libya to step up their immigration policies following the drowning of over 100 illegal immigrants on March 31.  Illegal immigrants follow a route from Libya to Italy and Malta.  Although Libya has taken some steps to prevent illegal migration, Italian officials insist that the tragedy on March 31 shows that the steps are insufficient.

According to the International Organization on Migration (IOM), tens of thousands of migrants pass through Libya's Borders every year.   These migrants come from other areas in Africa and travel through Libya to Europe.  Many of them leave by boat to Malta, and Italian islands, including Lampedusa, Pianosa, and Sicily.  Last year, over 36,000 migrants arrived in Italy by sea routes.  Most are smuggled in very unsafe and risky conditions.

Map showing Migration Patterns Through Libya, Courtesy of BBC

On March 30, several boats full of migrants departed from Tripoli despite stormy weather.  Approximately 30 miles away from Libya's shore, the boats capsized.  Reports from Libya state that the boats held over 400 people, but Libyan coast guard had only rescued 21 by the afternoon on March 31.  However, most of those rescued still face severe health risks after ingesting salt water when the boats capsized.

Following the event, Italy and Malta have renewed calls for Libya to improve border security.  Italian officials issued statements demanding that Libya work with European nations to create a joint-border control system.  Libya signed an accord with Italy last month that was intended to strengthen efforts of the two nations.  However, it is now believed that the accord will not be effective to prevent more accidents unless more steps are taken.  Italian Affairs Minister Roberto Maroni has designed a joint-patrol program that aims to dramatically cut down on migration.  If accepted by the Libyan government, the program will begin on May 15. 

International organizations have also been pressuring Libya to take action.  The UN High Commissioner for Refugees released a statement on March 31 calling for greater international cooperation to prevent further loss of life.  It is hoped that the international attention will prompt action by the Libyan government.

For more information, please see:

ABC News - Italy Steps Up Pressure After Libya Drownings - 1 April 2009

The Tripoli Post - Survivors: Boat Capsized 3 Hours of Sailing, Egyptian Smuggler and 70 Women All Died - 1 April 2009

BBC - Hundreds Feared Drowned Off Libya - 31 March 2009

Geneva Lunch - Libyan Boats; UNHCR Calls for Increased Cooperation, Rescue at Sea - 31 March 2009

Reuters AlertNet - UNHCR Shocked by Reports of Hundreds Missing in Mediterranean - 31 March 2009

Times of Malta - Italian Minister Sets May 15 for Start of Italy-Libya Patrols - 31 March 2009

VOA News - Italy Pushes for Steps to End Illegal Immigration Problem - 31 March 2009

The Tripoli Post - More than 300 Illegal Immigrants Rescued by Libyan Security - 6 March 2009

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