UNHCR and partners working to help manage Tunisian arrivals in Italy
This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Melissa Fleming – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at today's press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.
UNHCR and its partners from the International Organization for Migration and Save the Children Fund are in Lampedusa and several locations in southern Italy working with local authorities to manage the recent influx of Tunisians. According to the Italian Government over 5,200 people have arrived since mid-January, with the vast majority (4,400) having arrived during the past few days. While most are young men we know of at least 20 women and over 200 minors, many unaccompanied.
Described by the Italian Government as a humanitarian emergency, we appreciate the sensitive approach that has been taken so far, with all actors recognizing that among this mixed group there may be some who need to apply for asylum. From discussions with new arrivals it is clear that while most are coming in search of employment, others are citing fear of violence and a breakdown of law and order in their home regions.
UNHCR is concerned that people smugglers in Tunisia are exploiting youth by promising them a better life in Europe. Although the journey is short, high seas and bad weather can make it perilous. Most of the new arrivals are in good health, but some have arrived soaked through, and suffering exhaustion. We have received unconfirmed reports that at least four people have drowned.
The large number of people arriving over such a short period has put a significant pressure on the small island of Lampedusa. A reception centre designed for 800 people is currently holding over 2,000. Following a number of flights to relieve congestion in Lampedusa, we understand that other reception centres in Italy are also reaching capacity. We appreciate all efforts being made by the Italian Government to provide shelter and assistance for the new arrivals and hope that a solution is found quickly to relieve the pressure on Lampedusa.
The Italian Government has clearly stated its commitment to providing access to asylum procedures for those who are seeking international protection. We welcome this commitment and urge solidarity with Italy as it faces this new chapter of mixed migration. UNHCR hopes that any mechanisms designed to control irregular migration will continue to ensure access to asylum for people in need of protection.
Related news and stories
First UNITY Cup shows the power of football to connect refugees and hosts
Scholarships in Italy allow refugees to dream again
Relief for asylum seekers offered a new life outside Libya
Evacuation flights from Libya to Italy bring hope for vulnerable asylum seekers
UNHCR and Council of Europe discuss statelessness, urge States to uphold the right to a nationality in Europe
UNHCR warns of mounting refugee and migrant deaths in the Central Mediterranean
Your search for « tunisian » matched 278 results. Displaying page 3 of 31 pages.
-
Update No.7 on the situation in Dehiba/Remada (Southern Tunisia)
14 May 2011 ... in Tunisia’ southern governorates, based on the lists provided by the Tunisian authorities. ... According to the Tunisian authorities, while the vast majority of them are men going to check on ...... -
Teenage Ivorian refugee discovers a new world in Tunisia
10 Jan 2013 ... teenage refugee Abdel* cope with life in a Tunisian refugee camp, get over a tragic past and ... As an unaccompanied minor, he is a person of concern to UNHCR, which is working with the Tunisian ...... -
Update No.1 on the humanitarian situation in Libya and the neighbouring countries
2 Mar 2011 ... 2 March 2011 People fleeing Libya at the Tunisian border @ UNHCR / A. Duclos Overview Libya ... As requested by the Tunisian Government, UNHCR will support IOM to address the critical displacement ...... -
Over 140,000 flee Libya to Egypt and Tunisia, UNHCR steps up efforts to support refugees and civilians in Libya
1 Mar 2011 ... According to the Tunisian authorities, 70-75,000 people have fled Libya to Tunisia since 20 ... UNHCR has requested ICRC and UNICEF to help with improving these facilities. Tunisian civilians, the ...... -
Update No.16 on the humanitarian situation in Libya and the neighbouring countries
4 Apr 2011 ... The Humanitarian Coordinator for Libya visited Ras Djir at the Tunisian-Libyan border on 2 April. ... Population movement into Tunisia Others Libyans Tunisians 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 21/03/11 ...... -
Update No.19 on the humanitarian situation in Libya and the neighbouring countries
15 Apr 2011 ... into neighbouring countries. On both the Tunisian and Egyptian borders, an increase in the ... Population movement into Tunisia Others Libyans Tunisians 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 26/03/2011 ...... -
UNHCR Tunisia operational update
Dec 2015 ... by UNHCR staff with participation by the Tunisian Ministry of Social Affairs. Sensitization ... in December 2015 7 Boats rescued-at-sea off Tunisian shores in 2015 292 Vulnerable persons of ...... -
Tunisia fact sheet
Sep 2015 ... and books) So far in 2015, UNHCR trained 270 Tunisian officials on refugees and asylum seekers ... Since 2014, upon the request of the Tunisian government and in close cooperation with UN ...... -
UNHCR Supplementary Budget: The Libya Situation 2011 - March 2011
4 Mar 2011 ... Most are Egyptian and Tunisian nationals returning to their countries of origin, although increasing ... UNHCR is working with the Tunisian and Egyptian authorities, as well as other agencies and the Red ......