Pope Leo's appeal for the protection of migrant children: 'Enough with policies of mere management of flows, put human rights at the centre'

Berlin insists expulsions will happen despite Italy’s surprise Germany has reaffirmed its stance that expulsions of migrants will proceed, even though they were caught off guard by Italy’s refusal to accept them. The issue has escalated into a political standoff between Berlin and Rome, with both sides citing legal frameworks and bilateral agreements to justify their positions. According to official statements, Germany has already prepared for the repatriation of three irregular migrants, including a 22-year-old Somali woman, who was initially rescued in Lampedusa before settling in Assia with her family. The Italian government, however, has formally rejected the transfer, arguing that the cases fall under the new European Pact on Migration and Asylum, which came into effect on June 12, 2026. The dispute highlights the broader tensions between Italy and Germany over migration policies, particularly regarding the Dublin Regulation and the handling of asylum seekers. Italy claims that the transfers should be processed under the agreed framework, which includes provisions for compensation for the rescue operations conducted by German NGOs. The Italian Interior Minister, Matteo Piantedosi, emphasized that the country expects recognition of this principle before accepting any further transfers. This position aligns with Italy’s broader strategy to assert greater control over migration flows, especially in light of the sharp decline in arrivals compared to previous years. A growing trend of returns Meanwhile, official statistics reveal a marked increase in voluntary returns and forced expulsions. In the first six months of 2026, the number of migrant landings in Italy dropped by nearly half, down to around 14,388, compared to 30,000 in the same period of 2025. This decline is attributed to increased cooperation with Libya and Tunisia, which have helped intercept approximately 20,157 departures since the start of the year. The total number of irregular arrivals avoided through these efforts has reached 275,463 since 2023. At the same time, the number of voluntary returns has risen significantly, reaching 4,432 in the first half of the year, a 34.3% increase from the previous year. Of these, 3,825 were forced expulsions, up by 28.5%, while the number of assisted voluntary returns surged by 87.3%, from 324 to 607. These figures underscore the effectiveness of Italy’s migration policy, which prioritizes deterrence and legal compliance. The government has also introduced measures to support voluntary returns, such as financial assistance for legal procedures and travel arrangements. A shift in focus toward human rights Amid these developments, Pope Francis has called for a renewed emphasis on protecting the rights of vulnerable groups, particularly children and adolescents. In a statement ahead of the 112th World Day of the Migrant and the Refugee, he urged policymakers to move away from purely administrative approaches to migration management and instead prioritize the dignity and well-being of individuals. He highlighted the trauma faced by minors during their journeys, emphasizing that they are among the most vulnerable within migration flows. The Pope warned against policies that reduce children to mere numbers, stressing that each individual possesses infinite worth and should be treated with respect and compassion. His message comes as Europe continues to debate restrictive immigration policies, including border closures and the suspension of Schengen rules. While some countries advocate for stricter controls, others emphasize the need for humanitarian considerations. The Pope’s appeal reflects a growing concern over the treatment of minors in migration processes, particularly in relation to separation from families and exposure to dangerous conditions. Italy and Denmark strengthen ties on migration In parallel, Italy and Denmark have deepened their collaboration on migration issues, building on a long-standing partnership rooted in shared values and strategic interests. The two leaders, Giorgia Meloni and Mette Frederiksen, have worked together since early 2023, focusing on joint initiatives to enhance border security, streamline asylum procedures, and promote voluntary returns. Their cooperation gained momentum in May 2024, when they jointly signed the “Letter of the 15,” a document advocating for more effective migration governance through enhanced cooperation with third countries. This initiative proposed several key reforms, including improved coordination in search-and-rescue operations, the establishment of return hubs in safe third countries, and the creation of legal frameworks for processing returns. The agreement received broad support from other EU member states, including Austria, Greece, and the Netherlands, indicating a growing consensus on the need for more structured and predictable migration policies. The two leaders have also discussed the potential for expanding this collaboration to include additional countries, with a particular focus on strengthening partnerships with nations in North Africa and Eastern Europe. Tensions escalate over repatriations Despite these cooperative efforts, the recent disagreement over the repatriation of three migrants has exposed underlying tensions between Italy and Germany. The Italian government argues that the cases in question fall under the new European Pact, which provides for a streamlined process for returning individuals who arrived in Italy before the pact took effect. By rejecting the transfers, Italy is effectively challenging Germany’s authority over migration decisions, asserting that it must be given a say in how returns are managed. This conflict has intensified amid rising political pressure on both sides. Germany, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has adopted a hardline approach to immigration, pushing for stricter enforcement of existing laws and greater control over migration flows. Meanwhile, Italy seeks to consolidate its position as a key player in shaping EU migration policy, particularly in the context of growing public support for tighter borders and reduced immigration. The outcome of this dispute will likely influence future negotiations on migration governance and could mark a turning point in the relationship between the two nations.