The reception center on the Italian island of Lampedusa, known as the first stop in Europe for many migrants crossing the Mediterranean, has become a hopeless place in recent times. Aid workers recounted sinister conditions, including flooded toilets, a lack of doctors, food, and water, and chronic overcrowding that forced men, women, and children to sleep outdoors on dirty mattresses. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), three migrants died in the center in recent months.
However, as of June 1, by government decision, the Italian Red Cross took over management of the center and committed to providing better care for the tens of thousands of people who arrive each year from North Africa in the hope of a new life in Europe. Significant improvements were made, such as removing tons of garbage, renovating the kitchen, installing additional bathrooms, and hiring a new medical team. The center’s capacity was also increased by adding new beds.
In addition, work is underway to expedite off-island transfers and relieve pressure on the center, which was originally built to house 389 people but usually accommodates more than 3,000. The Red Cross aims to provide dignity to those arriving in Italy, as Lampedusa is the gateway to Europe for many migrants.
Lampedusa, famous for its white sandy beaches and tourism, has become one of the main entry routes to Europe for migrants crossing the Mediterranean from the shores of Tunisia, just 145 kilometers away. Last year, more than 46,000 people landed on the island out of a total of 105,000 arrivals in Italy, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
At the reception center, migrants receive food, water, clothing, and medical care, as well as WiFi and Internet access so they can communicate with their families and inform them of their situation. Psychological support is also provided to the most vulnerable. However, the new right-wing and far-right Italian government has recently eliminated the obligation to provide psychological services in such centers.
Despite efforts to improve conditions and streamline transfers, immigration to Italy has increased, with more than 53,000 people arriving so far this year, compared to 21,000 in the same period last year. Police in the center of Lampedusa are working to transfer migrants to centers on the mainland within one or two days, where they can receive proper treatment. However, the final destination of the migrants after leaving Lampedusa remains uncertain. Despite everything, some migrants express their satisfaction at being in Italy and hope for a better life.