The Italian government’s continued seizure of ships operated by private sea rescuers sparks outcry from organizations like Doctors Without Borders.

Italian Government Seizes Ship of Private Sea Rescuers

For the fourth time within a few weeks, the Italian government has seized a ship operated by private sea rescuers. Doctors Without Borders intends to challenge this decision, a tactic that has been successful in a similar case.

Italian governmental authorities continue to crack down on private sea rescue efforts. Following the rescue of 249 refugees and migrants in the Mediterranean Sea, the Geo Barents vessel, operated by Doctors Without Borders, was detained in the port of Marina di Carrara for 20 days. The humanitarian organization made this announcement on the X internet platform after the survivors disembarked in the northern Italian town.

According to Doctors Without Borders, the authorities accuse the ship’s crew of failing to follow instructions from the Libyan coast guard during a rescue operation, thereby endangering lives.

Organization to File a Protest

Doctors Without Borders denies these allegations, stating that a Libyan coast guard ship had attempted to stop a rescue last Saturday, threatening the crew of Geo Barents and the individuals seeking asylum. The organization declared its intention to challenge the decision made by Italian authorities.

In recent weeks, ships from the sea rescue organizations Sea-Eye, Sea-Watch, and SOS Humanity have also been detained after bringing rescued refugees to Italy from the Mediterranean. However, SOS Humanity achieved legal success in court. A civil court in Crotone, Italy, concluded in a preliminary assessment earlier this week that the detention of Humanity 1 was unjustified.

Italian Law Enables Detentions

These detentions are carried out under a 2023 Italian law related to private sea rescues. In cases of alleged violations, the law allows for the seizure of both the vessel and its crew, along with monetary penalties. According to Doctors Without Borders, the detention of Geo Barents marks the 20th seizure since the law’s enactment.

The Mediterranean is considered one of the most hazardous migration routes globally. According to the International Organization for Migration, nearly 400 people have died or gone missing since the beginning of the year while attempting the journey. In 2023, the IOM recorded 3,105 fatalities and missing persons. The actual figures are presumed to be much higher.