Italy bans NGO planes from utilizing airports near migrant pathways

Sea Watch condemns the move as ‘an act of cowardice and cynicism,’ vowing to continue aerial missions to assist migrants despite the restrictions

Italy announced on Tuesday that nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) would no longer be permitted to operate planes from airports on the islands of Sicily, Pantelleria, and Lampedusa, crucial routes for migrant boat rescues in the Mediterranean.

The Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) declared the decision, significantly impeding the efforts of organizations like Sea Watch, known for using small aircraft to locate and aid boats in distress across the central Mediterranean.

‘This is an act of cowardice and cynicism’ 

In response to the announcement, Sea Watch condemned the move as “an act of cowardice and cynicism,” vowing to continue aerial missions to assist migrants despite the restrictions.

ENAC defended its decision, labeling the NGO-operated planes as “unwarranted” and citing concerns over their impact on official rescue operations and the safety of undocumented migrants.

Spotter planes operated by NGOs play a critical role in identifying vessels in need and guiding rescue missions. They have also documented instances of aggressive pushbacks by Libyan coast guards, funded by European sources to deter migrant crossings.

Italy attempts to conceal reality of migration in Mediterranean

Sea Watch criticized the ordinance as an attempt to hide the realities of migration in the Mediterranean, affirming its commitment to exposing ongoing humanitarian crises.

“This attack, which tramples international law, will not deter us from continuing to disrupt those who would prefer to keep secret what is happening each day in the Mediterranean,” Sea Watch said. 

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who rose to power in 2022 with promises to curb migrant arrivals, has pursued stringent policies to restrict charity ship operations and collaborated with the European Union to stem migration flows from Libya and Tunisia.

The government contends that its measures have led to a reduction in drownings during the perilous sea crossings. Official figures show a decline in migrant arrivals in Italy this year compared to the same period in 2023.

Source: Newsroom