Amnesty International strongly condemned Italy’s support for the Libyan coast guard and its implications for migrant treatment during a session at the Italian Chamber of Deputies. The organization highlighted the dangers faced by migrants in Libya and criticized Italy’s recent handling of Libyan general Nijeem Osama al Masri’s case, calling for adherence to international justice standards.
Amnesty International’s spokesperson, Anneliese Baldaccini, presented strong criticisms regarding Italy’s support of the Libyan authorities in relation to migration management during a recent session at the Italian Chamber of Deputies. She emphasized that Italy’s ongoing support for the Libyan coast guard, particularly through the ‘Operation Safe Mediterranean’ and training initiatives, continues to enable the detainment of refugees, highlighting Amnesty’s long-standing documentation of the severe consequences of such collaborations.
The meeting was held to review Italy’s involvement in international missions planned for 2025. Baldaccini reiterated the UN’s stance that Libya presents significant dangers to intercepted migrants, noting that heinous acts against them have become a de facto state policy. She referenced findings from a UN independent inquiry mission that indicated potential crimes against humanity are committed in Libya, urging an end to support for institutions implicated in these violations.
Baldaccini also pointed out the lack of accountability for militia commanders in Libya, advocating for adherence to international justice protocols to break the cycle of impunity. Her critique further connected to Italy’s handling of Libyan general Nijeem Osama al Masri, who was arrested in Italy under an ICC warrant for his role in migrant abuses but was subsequently released due to procedural oversight.
She stated that Italy had a significant opportunity to uphold international justice but failed to act, returning al Masri to Libya shortly after his arrest. Baldaccini expressed concerns that Italy’s behavior may reflect similar dynamics in future migration agreements with nations such as Tunisia and Egypt, potentially compromising the integrity of search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean.
In conclusion, Amnesty International has raised pressing concerns regarding Italy’s support for Libyan authorities and its implications for migrant safety. The organization’s criticism underscores the dangers faced by migrants in Libya and Spain’s responsibilities under international law. Furthermore, the handling of the al Masri case highlights systemic shortcomings in Italy’s approach to justice and accountability, raising fears about future agreements with other North African nations.
Original Source: www.infomigrants.net
