Italy’s conservative government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, this week approved a bill that introduces new measures to combat illegal immigration. Among other things, it includes a naval blockade for migrant vessels attempting to reach the Italian coast.

In cases where vessels are deemed to pose a serious threat to public order or national security, such as a concrete risk of terrorist acts or terrorist infiltration, authorities can prohibit crossing into Italian waters for up to 30 days. The blockade can be extended for up to six months.

It would also be possible to stop vessels from entering Italian waters in the event of a drastic influx of migrants that could jeopardize secure border management. Those who break the rules risk fines of up to 50,000 euros and having their boats confiscated for repeated violations.

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In these cases, detained migrants could be “transported to third countries other than their country of origin, with which Italy has entered into specific agreements.”

More Restrictions

After a cabinet meeting, the bill was greenlit, although it must also pass both chambers of parliament before it can enter into force. The migration package also includes stricter border surveillance and cooperation with European authorities.

Earlier this week, the EU also approved a new immigration policy that allows nations to deny asylum and deport migrants on the grounds that they either come from a country classified as safe or can apply for asylum in a country outside the 27 nations that comprise the EU.

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