Hundreds of migrants, human rights activists, and civil society groups took to the streets of Rome on Saturday to protest against the renewal of the controversial migration agreement between Italy and Libya, first signed in 2017.
The demonstration came shortly after another migrant tragedy in the Mediterranean Sea, where a boat carrying about 30 people sank roughly 80 kilometres southeast of Lampedusa. Only ten were rescued, while nearly twenty others remain missing. The incident reignited outrage over Europe’s migration policies and the continued cooperation between Italy and Libya on border control.
Protesters accused the Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and the European Union of supporting what they described as inhumane practices. They condemned Italy’s ongoing funding and training of the Libyan Coast Guard, which has been repeatedly accused of intercepting migrant boats and subjecting refugees to abuse, detention, and forced returns.
During the rally, several migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa shared harrowing stories of violence and exploitation in Libya, drawing emotional reactions from participants. A moment of silence was also held to honour those who have died in the Mediterranean while attempting to reach safety in Europe.
The 2017 Memorandum of Understanding between Italy and Libya gives the Libyan Coast Guard financial, technical, and logistical support to prevent migrants from crossing the Mediterranean. Despite widespread criticism from humanitarian organisations and the United Nations, the Italian Chamber of Deputies recently voted to renew the agreement — with 153 lawmakers in favour and 112 against.
Human rights groups argue that renewing the deal effectively makes Italy complicit in human rights abuses. They insist that Europe must instead invest in safe migration pathways and long-term solutions addressing the root causes of displacement.
The protest in Rome reflected growing frustration among activists and migrants who believe that Europe’s border policies prioritize deterrence over human dignity. As more lives are lost at sea, many are calling on Italy and the EU to rethink their approach and uphold their responsibility to protect human life.