Berlin, 12 February 2026 – According to public announcements made on 11 February 2026, the Italian government under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is planning the third part of its so-called “security package.” The draft law reportedly seeks to reinstate a naval blockade on civilian sea-rescue operations in the central Mediterranean.
At the core of the proposal is a provision allowing Italian authorities to deny rescue vessels carrying survivors entry into Italian territorial waters for a period ranging from one to six months. Instead of being granted access to a safe port, those rescued could be deported from international waters to third countries. Such measures would further deprive survivors of their liberty and risk forcing people seeking protection to be transferred to states where their safety and rights cannot be guaranteed.
The draft also foresees severe penalties for sea-rescue organisations. Alleged violations could result in fines ranging from €10,000 to €50,000. In cases of repeated “offences,” authorities would be empowered to confiscate vessels
The government justifies the denial of entry on the grounds of a “serious threat,” citing terrorism, “exceptional migration pressure,” international health emergencies, or major security-related events. By framing migration and rescue operations within this security logic, the proposal effectively equates humanitarian assistance and people seeking refuge with threats to national security.
“This draft law is a clear sign of the growing ‘Trumpisation’ of Europe. It equates refugees and civilian sea rescue with terrorism. This represents an unprecedented attack on human rights and basic human decency,” says Anna Giannessi, spokesperson for Sea-Watch. “Instead of protecting lives, Italy is creating new mechanisms to obstruct rescue operations and deport people seeking protection to unsafe third countries.”
With this announced legislative initiative, Italy positions itself at the forefront of a broader European trend that systematises isolation and deliberately shifts responsibility for people seeking protection onto third countries. If adopted, this law would undermine solidarity efforts and Italy’s obligations under international law.
Press Contact:
Anna Giannessi
+4915792397603
Sea-Watch e.V.
presse@sea-watch.org