Statement by Vincent Cochetel, UNHCR Europe Bureau Director, on new boat arrival in Italy

"The use of larger cargo ships is a new trend, but it is part of an ongoing and worrying situation that can no longer be ignored by European governments. We need urgent European concerted action in the Mediterranean Sea, increasing efforts to rescue people at sea and stepping up efforts to provide legal alternatives to dangerous voyages. Without safer ways for refugees to find safety in Europe, we won't be able to reduce the multiple risks and dangers posed by these movements at sea.

UNHCR thanks the Italian authorities for their response to these latest incidents, despite the phasing down of the Mare Nostrum operation. We have expressed concerns over the ending of this operation without a similar European search-and-rescue operation to replace it. This will undoubtedly increase the risk for those trying to find safety in Europe."

For more information on this topic, please contact:

• In Geneva, William Spindler on mobile +41 79 217 3011, [email protected]
• In Geneva, Ariane Rummery on mobile +41 79 200 7617, [email protected]