Why EU Offshore Migrant Centers Can’t Work—for Now

Italy's controversial $710 million deal to send asylum-seekers to offshore centers in Albania has faced significant political, legal, and financial challenges, rendering it unfeasible. The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, aimed to use this as a model for the EU, but faced opposition from the judiciary, human rights organizations, and the public. The European Court of Justice ruled against the deal, citing human rights concerns. Critics argue the plan is inhumane and financially burdensome, while supporters claim it offers a structured approach to migration. The deal has strained relations between Meloni's administration and the judiciary, and has been criticized by international organizations like Amnesty International. The controversy has strengthened Italy's political left, which opposes the far-right's anti-migrant policies. The EU's debate on offshore migration solutions continues, with potential implications from U.S. policies under President Donald Trump.

Italy's Struggle with Citizenship Law Reform and Ethnic Nationalism

The article discusses the ongoing debate in Italy regarding the reform of the citizenship law, which currently grants citizenship primarily through blood ties. The proposed reform, known as jus culturae, would allow citizenship through cultural assimilation, particularly for those who have completed five years of schooling in Italy. The debate, which began in 2016, has been met with resistance from populist and right-wing parties. The article highlights the perspectives of ethnic minorities and second-generation Italians who are advocating for the reform, as well as the challenges they face in gaining political representation and recognition. It also touches on the broader issues of xenophobia and the political exploitation of immigration. The article includes insights from activists, experts, and individuals directly affected by the citizenship laws, emphasizing the need for Italy to adapt its policies to be more inclusive and reflective of its changing demographics.

Meet the Bosnian Youth Trying to Hold Their Country Together

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, youth organizations like Youth for Peace and the Ivan Pavao II Youth Center are actively working to bridge ethnic and religious divides through peacebuilding and interfaith dialogue initiatives. Despite the country's deeply divided political landscape and the legacy of the 1990s conflict, these grassroots efforts aim to foster understanding and reconciliation among the younger generations. Key figures such as Samira Fatma Barucija and Nadezda Mojsilovic emphasize the importance of active citizenship and local political engagement. However, challenges remain, including rising nationalist rhetoric and the lack of systemic solutions for peacebuilding.

The Mediterranean Red Prawn War Signals Italy’s Lost Leverage in Libya

Italian fishermen face increasing risks due to a maritime dispute with Libya over fishing rights in the Mediterranean. The conflict has intensified since Libya's regional fragmentation in 2011, with Libyan militias detaining Italian fishermen. Italy's influence in Libya has waned, and the EU's focus on migration has allowed Libya to assert greater control over the Mediterranean. Italian fishermen demand more protection from their government, while anti-EU sentiments grow within the fishing industry. The situation highlights Italy's lost leverage in Libya and the broader geopolitical challenges in the region.

Mafia, Poverty, and the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated poverty and social unrest in Southern Italy, particularly in cities like Catania and Palermo. The lockdown has severely impacted informal workers, leading to increased reliance on charities like Caritas Diocesana. Organized crime groups, such as the mafia, are exploiting the situation by providing essential services, thereby gaining legitimacy. The Italian government has introduced financial relief measures, but delays in distribution have allowed criminal organizations to step in. Local authorities are working to mitigate these issues, but the economic future remains uncertain.

His grandfather fled fascist Italy during WWII and found refuge in Syria. Now Alberto and his family have returned.

Alberto Livadiotti, an Italian citizen born and raised in Damascus, Syria, recounts his family's journey from Syria to Italy amidst the Syrian civil war. His grandfather, Alfonso Livadiotti, had fled fascist Italy during WWII and found refuge in Syria. Alberto inherited Italian citizenship from Alfonso but had never been to Italy before the war. When the conflict in Syria escalated, the Italian embassy offered to evacuate Italian nationals, and after some hesitation, Alberto and his family left for Lebanon and eventually reached Catania, Sicily. They faced challenges integrating into Italian society, including language barriers and finding housing. Alberto, who converted to Islam 20 years ago, received support from the local Muslim community and eventually opened a successful Syrian restaurant. The family has now settled in Catania, maintaining their Syrian heritage while building a new life in Italy.

How an Italian Self-Defense Class Uses Books to Fight Hate

Aurora Lo Porto, a medical student in Catania, Sicily, observed a rise in racist attitudes and decided to take action by co-founding Italy's first 'self-defense reading group' with Maria Carmela Sciacca, owner of Legatoria Prampolini bookstore. The group, launched in collaboration with the humanitarian non-profit Emergency, aims to combat xenophobia through dialogue and critical thinking, using books as tools. The initiative comes in response to the increasing intolerance fueled by populist parties and the far-right rhetoric in Italy, including legal measures against immigrants and marginalized communities. The reading group discusses various topics, including conflict, migration, and human rights, and plans to expand its audience and activities, such as a large-scale public reading event. Mercy David, a Nigerian refugee and sales assistant at the bookstore, is also inspired by the group and hopes to write a book about her experiences.