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.20 on the humanitarian situation in Libya and the neighbouring countries
19 Apr 2011 ... 2011. Tunisia Egypt Niger Algeria Sudan Chad Tunisians 21,583 Egyptians 85,719 ... Population movement into Tunisia Others Libyans Tunisians 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 30/03/2011 ...... -
Update No.5 on the situation in Dehiba/Remada (Southern Tunisia)
3 May 2011 ... with food through ICRC and tents through the Tunisian army. - On 2 May, 2,800 Libyan refugees fled ... number of Tunisian families reportedly left Dehiba town and moved further away from the border. ...... -
UNHCR calls for action to alleviate humanitarian situation on Lampedusa
22 Mar 2011 ... The humanitarian situation for the 5,000 mostly Tunisian migrants on this remote Italian island is ... More than 15,000 Tunisian migrants have arrived on Lampedusa since mid-January. Around two-thirds ...... -
UNHCR chief returns to Tunisia to meet refugees from Libya
17 Jun 2011 ... He warned that Tunisian generosity, which comes at a crucial time in its own modern history, should ... February, the High Commissioner praised the Tunisian people and government for their remarkable ...... -
Update No.30 on the humanitarian situation in Libya and the neighbouring countries
22 Jun 2011 ... He warned that Tunisian generosity, which comes at a crucial time in its own modern history, should ... February, the High Commissioner praised the Tunisian people and government for their remarkable ...... -
Update No.15 on the humanitarian situation in Libya and the neighbouring countries
31 Mar 2011 ... During a meeting with Tunisian authorities, UN agencies and NGOs, the EU Commissioner’s support ... The Choucha transit camp at the Tunisian-Libyan border. /UNHCR/ A.Duclos Population Movements By 30 ...... -
More refugees flee western Libya, new aid reaches the east
26 Apr 2011 ... The vast majority of Libyan refugees are hosted by the local Tunisian communities, demonstrating once again their great generosity. However, these Tunisian hosts are under a growing strain as their ...... -
Disruption at Choucha Camp near Tunisia-Libya border
27 May 2011 ... among the local Tunisian community. Early on Tuesday morning violence erupted among various groups in the camp and at least two deaths were reported. Despite the efforts of the Tunisian military to ...... -
Update No.26 on the humanitarian situation in Libya and the neighbouring countries
27 May 2011 ... among the local Tunisian community. Early on 24 May violence erupted among various groups in the camp and at least two deaths were reported. Despite the efforts of the Tunisian military to prevent ......