Italy is dismantling its controversial cooperation with the Libyan Coast Guard to stem the migration of people across the Mediterranean. To fight human trafficking, the Italian government will provide the Coast Guard with material and training even more support, the government in Rome said last night.
The EU-backed deal envisages Libya intercepting refugees on their way to Europe in the Mediterranean and returning them to civil war. He is highly controversial because refugees in the country are threatened with severe mistreatment. Aid organizations have for years been calling attention to the inhumane conditions in the Libyan internment camps.
The number of arrivals in Italy has fallen dramatically since the agreement. However, more people with small boats come to the Italian coasts independently – especially from Tunisia. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte therefore wants to start talks with Tunisian Prime Minister Youssef Chahed.
