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.
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The 10-Point Plan in action: Chapter 4/Annex 4.4. UNHCR's Operational role in southern Italy
15 Nov 2012 ... ... The majority of these were Tunisian and Moroccan nationals travelling on small fishing boats from ... were recorded as Moroccan, and approximately 10% each as Tunisian, Eritrean or Palestinian. ...... -
UNHCR Recommendations on Important Aspects of Refugee Protection in Italy
Jul 2013 ... ... concerns 9 that hundreds of Egyptian and Tunisian migrants, except those who had arrived in ... Since 2011, there have been instances in which Egyptian and Tunisian nationals, who had arrived in ...... -
Refugee protection and international migration: a review of UNHCR's operational role in southern Italy
Sep 2009 ... ... The majority of these were Tunisian and Moroccan nationals travelling on small fishing boats from ... were recorded as Moroccan, and approximately 10% each as Tunisian, Eritrean or Palestinian. ...... -
UNHCR Global Report 2012 - North Africa subregional overview
1 Jun 2013 ... ... Supplementary budgets that had been created in 2011 were mainstreamed into the financial requirements to cover the costs of sustaining basic services for people of concern at the Egyptian and Tunisian ...... -
Report of the 2019 MENA Regional Consultations- English
30 Oct 2019 ... ... Panelists: • Arafat Jamal | UNHCR HQ • Nasser Yassin | American University of Beirut • Mary Nazzal Batayneh | Landmark Hotel / 17 Asset Management • Wassim Jomaa | Tunisian Red Crescent 7 ...... -
Selected Distress at Sea Incidents involving Refugees and Migrants in 2011
Dec 2011 ... ... None 31.05.2011 Libya Lampedusa, Italy 20 nautical miles from Kerkennah Islands, Tunisia 700-800 West Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh Tunisian coast guard responded to rescue call, saving at least 580 ...... -
UNHCR Mid-Year Progress Report 2001 - North Africa
1 Sep 2001 ... ... In Tunisia, the Office has been negotiating with different parties to find solutions for the 133 refugees registered with UNHCR. In close collaboration with the Tunisian Red Crescent, UNHCR has been ...... -
UNHCR Mid-Year Progress Report 2002 - North Africa Regional Overview
1 Sep 2002 ... ... A total of 57 refugees categorised as vulnerable persons were provided with limited humanitarian assistance in close collaboration with the Tunisian Red Crescent. In Western Sahara, UNHCR is ...... -
UNHCR Global Report 2010 - Addressing statelessness
20 Jun 2011 ... ... In 2010, Lithuania, Kenya and Tunisia undertook such legislative reform. The progressive new constitution in Kenya and recent amendments to the Tunisian Code on Nationality ensure full equality ......