Italy’s u-turn on migration: Polls come first

The facts provide a compelling counter-narrative to wild claims of an 'invasion' of migrants. But Rome has taken the easier route and bowed to public pressure to restrict migration.

Since summer 2017, the Italian government has been taking a series of measures aimed at reducing the flows by negotiating with Libyan militias, tribes and authorities. While these policies have been harshly criticised by NGOs and human rights associations due to the inhumane conditions in which people detained in Libya are forced to live, Rome is more concerned about public opinion in the context of the approaching parliamentary elections.

So far, the public has been receptive to Interior Minister Marco Minniti’s security-driven approach. But this solution is ultimately destined to fail, argues the author, without a comprehensive plan aimed at regulating – not blocking – migration flows.

• Primary Source

Chatham House: Expert Comment, 05.09.17: Europe’s Flawed Thinking on Mediterranean Migration (et al) http://www.europeansources.info/record/europes-flawed-thinking-on-mediterranean-migration/

ESO: Information Guide: European Migration Challenges http://www.europeansources.info/record/information-guide-european-migration-challenges/

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