Amnesty International Critiques Italy’s Support of Libyan Migration Management

Amnesty International criticizes Italy’s support for Libyan authorities in managing migration, highlighting serious human rights abuses against migrants in Libya. During a session in the Italian Chamber of Deputies, spokesperson Anneliese Baldaccini condemned Italy’s recent decision to release Libyan general Nijeem Osama al Masri, who faces ICC charges for crimes against humanity. The organization warns that Italy’s actions may carry implications for future agreements with Tunisia and Egypt.

Amnesty International has publicly condemned Italy’s collaboration with Libyan authorities regarding migration management. Anneliese Baldaccini, the organization’s spokesperson, voiced these concerns during a recent joint session of the Italian Chamber of Deputies’ Committees on Foreign Affairs and Defense. She highlighted that Italy’s decree continues to support the Libyan coast guard in handling migration, a practice that Amnesty has criticized for several years due to its consequences for refugees.

During the session, which discussed Italy’s participation in international missions, Baldaccini emphasized Libya’s status as a perilous location for migrants intercepted at sea. She cited a recent UN report indicating that acts of severe cruelty against migrants have become a de facto state policy in Libya. This report recommended ceasing support for Libyan institutions implicated in these human rights abuses, involving militia leaders who face allegations of crimes against humanity.

Baldaccini raised concerns regarding Italy’s recent handling of Libyan general Nijeem Osama al Masri, who was arrested in January on an ICC warrant for crimes against humanity. His swift release from custody, attributed to a procedural oversight by Italy’s Minister of Justice, has intensified Amnesty’s critique. Baldaccini asserted that Italy missed an opportunity to uphold international justice by returning al Masri to Libya instead of following through with the necessary judicial processes.

Moreover, Baldaccini expressed apprehension that Italy’s current stance on immigration agreements might similarly influence future relations with Tunisia and Egypt. She warned that the EU’s financial commitments to these countries could normalize serious human rights violations and compromise the integrity of rescue operations in the Mediterranean.

In summary, Amnesty International’s critique underscores serious concerns regarding Italy’s ongoing support for Libyan authorities amid evidence of human rights violations. The situation surrounding the release of Nijeem Osama al Masri illustrates the complexities and moral challenges in Italy’s legal and humanitarian responsibilities. The organization’s warnings about future agreements with Tunisia and Egypt further highlight the potential for continued complicity in human rights abuses under the guise of migration management.

Original Source: www.infomigrants.net