The recent tragedy off the coast of Calabria, with around fifty migrants missing after their boat capsized, has sparked heartfelt reactions from various authorities and organizations in Calabria.
The President of the Regional Council of Calabria, Filippo Mancuso, expressed his deep sorrow and concern over the event. He reiterated the need for urgent and decisive intervention by Europe to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Mancuso underlined the importance of greater collaboration between EU member states to strengthen controls, improve rescue operations and effectively combat human trafficking.
Also Roberto Occhiuto, President of the Calabria Region, expressed his dismay, defining the news as a “punch in the stomach” and recalling the drama experienced in Cutro the previous year. Occhiuto praised the rescuers and underlined the need for greater attention from Europe and national governments towards the Turkish route, from which the migrants came.
Philip Sestitus, president of ARCI Crotone, criticized Italian and European migration policies, stating that these cause death and suffering instead of guaranteeing safety and dignity. Sestito called for an end to rejections at sea and the criminalization of NGOs, as well as calling for the implementation of safe and legal channels for accessing international protection.
In the end, Celeste Logiacco, Confederal Secretary of the CGIL Calabria, she highlighted the need to address the issue of immigration by enhancing human life and the conditions of migrants. You called for the abolition of the Bossi-Fini law, the creation of fairer and more effective reception and integration policies, and respect for people’s fundamental rights.
In summary, Calabrian authorities and organizations are calling for a change in European and national migration policies, with a greater commitment to preventing tragedies at sea and protecting the human rights of migrants.
