Amnesty International Critiques Italy’s Support for Libyan Authorities on Migration
Amnesty International criticized Italy’s support for Libyan migration management during a parliamentary session. Spokesperson Anneliese Baldaccini highlighted the dangers faced by migrants in Libya and urged the end of support for implicated institutions. Criticism also stemmed from Italy’s recent handling of Libyan General al Masri’s release despite ICC charges. The organization fears similar issues may arise in future agreements with Tunisia and Egypt.
This week, the Spokesperson for Amnesty International, Anneliese Baldaccini, voiced strong criticism regarding Italy’s support for the Libyan authorities in managing migration during a joint session of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committees at the Italian Chamber of Deputies. Baldaccini highlighted that the current decree continues the support for the so-called Libyan coast guard through programs like ‘Operation Safe Mediterranean’, which facilitates migration management tasks.
Baldaccini emphasized the severe consequences of the long-standing cooperation between Italy and Libya in containing refugee numbers. She reiterated the United Nations’ stance that Libya poses significant dangers to intercepted migrants, citing a UN inquiry that found reasonable grounds to believe that crimes against humanity are committed in Libya, often sanctioned by state policy. The report clearly recommended withdrawing support for Libyan institutions associated with these abuses.
The session aimed to evaluate Italy’s role in additional international missions slated for 2025. Baldaccini stated that there remain no plans to hold powerful militia leaders accountable for their actions in Libya, calling for international justice mechanisms to address the ongoing cycle of impunity.
Additionally, Amnesty criticized Italy’s handling of the arrest and subsequent release of Libyan General Nijeem Osama al Masri, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity related to migrant smuggling and abuse. Despite being detained in Turin, al Masri was released by a Roman court due to procedural failures, leading to Amnesty’s outcry concerning Italy’s apparent failure to uphold international justice.
Baldaccini expressed concern that Italy’s current attitudes may similarly reflect in future agreements with Tunisia and Egypt regarding migration, urging that European commitments should not implicitly endorse violations of human rights.
Amnesty International’s criticism reflects grave concerns regarding Italy’s collaboration with Libyan authorities regarding migration management. The organization raises vital points about the humanitarian ramifications of such partnerships, the need for accountability for militia leaders, and the implications for future international agreements. Such discussions reinforce the necessity of adhering to international legal obligations and the protection of human rights for migrants.
Original Source: www.infomigrants.net
