Italian Interior Minister Matteo Bianchiduozi announced Italy’s intensified efforts in combating human smuggling, emphasizing bilateral collaborations, especially with Tunisia and Libya. In a conference organized by the European Commission in Brussels on Tuesday, he highlighted Italy’s focused initiatives against human trafficking.
Bianchiduozi stated that over 60% of migrants reaching Italian shores originate from Tunisia, underscoring the importance of Italy’s targeted actions towards the North African country. He also acknowledged Libya’s continuous cooperation in these efforts. The minister pointed out that communications with Tunisian and Libyan authorities have revived cooperation against human trafficking and irregular migration. This includes technical meetings with these countries, dedicated to managing migration phenomena.
The minister noted the enhanced collaboration has enabled Italy to quickly implement a series of operational initiatives. These primarily focus on two areas: firstly, a transformation in the investigation of trafficking networks, thanks to joint investigations between Italian and Tunisian anti-trafficking agencies; secondly, specific Tunisian officers have been stationed in Rome since October to facilitate the exchange of information, including investigative data on irregular migration and human trafficking networks.
Bianchiduozi also mentioned Italy’s occasional provision of maritime and land assets for border surveillance, along with necessary training activities to support the authorities of the countries of origin and transit. He concluded by emphasizing the belief that the battle against traffickers can only be won through direct action at the borders, with stringent land and sea controls.
Italy’s approach reflects a broader European challenge in managing migration flows while respecting human rights and international law. The country’s geographical position makes it a primary entry point for migrants and refugees from Africa and the Middle East. This situation has prompted Italy to seek cooperative solutions with countries of origin and transit to address the root causes of irregular migration and human trafficking. The involvement of Tunisia and Libya is crucial in this context, as both countries play a significant role in the migration routes towards Europe. Italy’s efforts to strengthen border controls and international cooperation demonstrate a commitment to tackling the complex issue of migration in a comprehensive and humane manner.
