Amnesty International criticizes Italy for its support of Libyan authorities regarding migration management during a session in the Chamber of Deputies. The organization emphasizes the need for accountability for human rights abuses in Libya and raises concerns over Italy’s decision to release a wanted war crimes suspect. Amnesty warns that similar patterns may emerge in Italy’s dealings with Tunisia and Egypt.
Amnesty International’s spokesperson, Anneliese Baldaccini, criticized Italy’s support for Libyan authorities during a joint session in the Chamber of Deputies. This session, held on March 11, discussed Italy’s participation in international missions for 2025. Baldaccini highlighted that Italy’s continued support for the Libyan coast guard is concerning, particularly in light of the documented consequences of European and Italian cooperation aimed at managing migration.
Baldaccini specifically noted that, “This year’s decree continues to support the Libyan authorities, the so-called Libyan coast guard… to carry out migration management tasks.” Amnesty has raised alarm over the situation in Libya, where the United Nations has described the country as dangerous for migrants due to state-sanctioned brutality. Reports indicate that crimes against humanity are being committed in Libya by state officials, leading to calls to cease all support for implicated institutions.
Regarding the arrest of Libyan general Nijeem Osama al Masri, who is wanted for crimes against humanity, Baldaccini indicated that Italy’s handling of this situation illustrates broader concerns. Al Masri was apprehended in Turin following an ICC warrant but was released shortly thereafter due to procedural errors in his arrest verification. Baldaccini expressed disappointment, stating, “Italy had the chance to do so… and would have been obliged to do so when al Masri was arrested.”
The Amnesty spokesperson further cautioned that Italy’s decisions on migration agreements with other North African countries, such as Tunisia and Egypt, echo a troubling pattern. Baldaccini concluded that the European Union’s financial support might inadvertently endorse violations of human rights and undermine search and rescue operations.
In summary, Amnesty International has vocally criticized Italy’s collaboration with Libyan authorities, particularly in migration management and recent judicial actions regarding war crimes suspects. By releasing a key figure implicated in human rights abuses, Italy raises concerns about its commitment to uphold international justice. This situation signals potential risks as Italy explores further agreements with other nations on migration-related matters.
Original Source: www.infomigrants.net
