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Civilian rescue organizations working to save the lives of migrants and asylum seekers in the Mediterranean are increasingly faced with a dilemma: either comply with arbitrary restrictions that often have deadly consequences, or risk detention and possible prosecution. Both options would hinder rescue organizations from carrying out their life-saving missions and endanger lives at sea.
In addition to an existing policy of hindering boats operated by non-governmental organizations, Italian authorities are now targeting small aircraft used by rescue groups such as Sea Watch and volunteer pilots. Italian authorities fined Sea Watch €2,064 (about $2,240). The first fine was issued after a warning this month Italian National Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) Any use of aerial surveillance outside the existing regulatory framework will result in penalties, including grounding of aircraft.
Rescue teams fly planes over central Mediterranean Detect a vessel in distress and raise the alarm This aerial surveillance also plays a vital role in documenting human rights violations in the Mediterranean, including reckless interceptions by the Libyan Coast Guard and counter-attacks against Libyan abuses. and the activities of Frontex, the EU border management agency.
For now, reconnaissance operations continue as normal, but the Italian government’s enthusiasm for detaining rescue ships may be a sign that these aircraft will face similar challenges in the near future.
Since the beginning of 2023, Italian authorities Frequent seizure of rescue ships The reason is untenable. Crotone, Ragusa, and Catania Some of these seizures have been ruled illegal. But such government harassment has had profound financial and reputational effects on aid groups and has limited their ability to operate.
Another common tactic to hinder rescue missions is Designate a distant port of call for vessels during each rescueForcing them to travel long distances, away from where they are needed most in the Mediterranean. If a rescue ship responds to a distress call while en route to a designated port, the organization could face a fine of up to €50,000 (about $54,114) or have the ship seized.
Over the past decade, More than 23,000 people Many people have died or are missing in the central Mediterranean. Italian authorities must understand that any reduction in already limited rescue resources will cost lives. Without aerial surveillance, fewer people can be monitored. Instead of obstructing important operations at every turn, Italy should recognize and support humanitarian efforts at sea.
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