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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Update No.22 on the humanitarian situation in Libya and the neighbouring countries
28 Apr 2011 ... Breakdown as of 26 April 2011 Tunisia Egypt Niger Algeria Sudan Chad Tunisians 27,593 ... Population movement into Tunisia Others Libyans Tunisians 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 ...... -
Update No.23 on the humanitarian situation in Libya and the neighbouring countries
3 May 2011 ... Breakdown as of 02 May 2011 Tunisia Egypt Niger Algeria Sudan Chad Tunisians 31,674 ... Population movement into Tunisia Others Libyans Tunisians 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 ...... -
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25 Feb 2011 ... the "humanitarian spirit" shown by the Tunisian and Egyptian governments while noting that ... last Sunday, mainly Tunisian nationals, with a number of Egyptians, Turks, Moroccans and Chinese. ...... -
Update No.21 on the humanitarian situation in Libya and the neighbouring countries
26 Apr 2011 ... Population movement into Egypt Others Libyans Egyptians Others Libyans Tunisians Total border ... the mountain area and then asked for an entry stamp at the Tunisian side of the Dehiba border point. ...... -
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18 May 2011 ... families from the local authorities, the Tunisian Red Crescent and UNHCR local partners in ... Grad missiles reportedly landed as close as 500 meters from the Tunisian border. According to the ...... -
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5 Apr 2011 ... Jolie travelled on Tuesday morning to the Tunisian-Libyan border to urge greater international ... The outpouring of generosity from the Tunisian people says so much for the future of this country, ...... -
Update No.5 on the humanitarian situation in Libya and the neighbouring countries
9 Mar 2011 ... the Secretary General of the Tunisian Red Crescent as well as with the UN agencies and NGOs. ... Guterres said. “At a moment of tragedy, the Tunisian government and its people are setting an ...... -
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2 Jul 2013 ... In late June, more than 600 refugees were living in the southern Tunisian towns of Ben Gardane and ... camp [at the weekend] has the support of the Tunisian authorities, who have expressed readiness to ...... -
UNHCR Global Appeal 2012-2013 - Tunisia
1 Dec 2011 ... The Tunisian Government has since then begun to engage proactively with UNHCR and signed a ... an asylum-migration debate as thousands of Tunisians attempted to reach Italy in irregular ......