“For years, we have been witnessing what is effectively an uncontrolled mass migration across the Mediterranean, with dramatic consequences for internal security, social systems, and social cohesion in Europe. For far too long, the necessary stopping of migrant boats has been obstructed with hollow moral arguments under the guise of misguided humanitarianism by the political mainstream and its left-wing NGO whisperers. Meloni’s initiative is therefore a long overdue signal of political common sense. If implemented consistently, it could finally put an end to the business model of smuggling gangs. Italy is showing that the capacity of the state to act, the protection of external borders, and the safeguarding of internal security must not be taboos, but belong to the core responsibilities of sovereign states.
It is also welcome that boat migrants who are barred from entering Italian waters are to be taken to countries with which Italy has concluded agreements on detention or return. This means the asylum procedure takes place outside the national territory, can ideally be handled in an expedited process, and protects the population from potentially criminal threats. With the Albania model, Italy was a pioneer in this regard and, although far too late, was ultimately vindicated in its approach by the most recent votes in the European Parliament.”
