Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Italy: A new underhand tactic for ending work of NGO rescue ship will cost lives DONATE

Italy: A new underhand tactic for ending work of NGO rescue ship will cost lives

Responding to news that the Panama Maritime Authority revoked the registration of the search and rescue ship, Aquarius, operated by SOS Mediterranée and Médecins Sans Frontières, reportedly after pressure from the Italian government, Elisa di Pieri Amnesty International’s Europe Researcher said:
“After closing its ports and seizing NGO ships, it now appears that Italian authorities have resorted to even more underhand tactics to curtail the life-saving work of NGO search and rescue ships in the central Mediterranean.
“If it is confirmed that Panama’s decision to revoke the registration of the Aquarius was made as a result of pressure brought to bear by the Italian government, this would be a new low in Italy’s crackdown against those saving lives at sea.
“The Aquarius has reportedly rescued more than 30,000 people over a period of more than two years. Deliberately depleting resources for saving lives in the central Mediterranean will expose thousands of people to the risk of a watery grave.
“The Italian government is expressly attacking rescue NGOs in order to deter disembarkation in Italy. This results in migrants and refugees being taken back to Libya from where they have fled horrific abuses.”
 
For more information or to arrange an interview on the ground contact Elizabeth Berton-Hunter, Media Relations 416-363-9933 ext 332 bberton-hunter@amnesty.ca
 
 
 
 

Topics:

Share:

Take Action

A child's boot in a pond

Bill C-2 threatens people’s right to seek safety in Canada

Illustration of black man behind a tablet with a mask on it

Make it safe online for LGBTQQIA+ people in Uganda

Tell President Trump No Mass Deportations!

HOPE STARTS HERE

In a world that too often divides us, we choose solidarity.

Latest news

Related news