Salvini faces 6-year prison sentence for blocking migrants in 2019

In 2019, Matteo Salvini, then Italy's interior minister, faced accusations of kidnapping for preventing over 100 migrants from disembarking from a rescue ship operated by the charity Open Arms. The migrants were stranded at sea for 19 days, during which some attempted to jump overboard in desperation. Eventually, a court ordered their disembarkation in Lampedusa. Italian prosecutors have now requested a six-year prison sentence for Salvini, who is currently the deputy premier and transport minister in Giorgia Meloni's government. Salvini's actions were part of a broader 'closed ports' policy aimed at curbing illegal immigration, which he defended as necessary for national security. His stance has garnered support from Meloni and other ministers, who argue that his efforts to protect Italy's borders align with the mandate given by citizens. Salvini has publicly stated he would repeat his actions, emphasizing that defending borders is not a crime. The legal proceedings against him could have significant implications, including a potential ban from holding government office if he is convicted. His lawyer is set to present a defense statement in Palermo, with a possible verdict expected by the end of the month. The case highlights the ongoing tensions in Italy regarding migration policy and the treatment of migrants at sea. Since taking office in 2022, Meloni has pledged to intensify measures against migration, aiming to deter refugees from risking their lives to cross the Mediterranean. This situation reflects the broader political climate in Italy, where migration remains a contentious issue, influencing both public opinion and government policy.