Author: RACHAEL ADEEGBE

The Biden-Harris administration is preparing to let protections for Venezuelan migrants end by the end of this month. Reports indicate that the parole program, which allowed many Venezuelans to stay in the United States after undergoing a vetting process, will not be extended. This change will primarily affect those who arrived under this program two years ago. Initially, the program aimed to reduce the number of Venezuelans trying to reach the U.S.-Mexico border. It provided a legal pathway for migrants who had sponsors in the United States. In early 2023, the administration broadened this program to include migrants from Cuba,…

Italy’s government has unveiled new migration regulations designed to curb irregular immigration while expanding legal avenues for non-EU workers. The newly adopted “flows decree” includes higher work visa quotas and stricter rules for NGOs involved in sea rescues. On October 2, the Italian government approved this “flows decree,” which introduces an experimental extra quota for caregivers, supplementing the 452,000 work visas announced for the 2023-2025 period—an increase of nearly 150% from the prior three years. Alfredo Mantovano, Undersecretary to the Prime Minister, emphasized the government’s goal of simplifying procedures, reducing waiting times, and establishing clearer, less avoidable rules. Mantovano highlighted…

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has responded to accusations suggesting that its funds are being diverted towards supporting illegal migrants instead of disaster relief following Hurricane Helene. This comes after prominent Republicans, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Donald Trump Jr., voiced concerns that $640 million from FEMA’s budget was being used for migrant assistance, leaving the agency short of resources for hurricane response. Governor Abbott took to social media, calling for FEMA to redirect funds allocated to migrant services towards hurricane-hit areas. He posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Mayorkas and FEMA — immediately stop spending money on illegal…

Tunisia has been declared an unsafe place for migrants and asylum seekers rescued at sea, especially for Black individuals. Human rights organizations have highlighted numerous violations, including Tunisia’s lack of an asylum system and the government’s crackdown on civil society and media. Tunisia’s cooperation with the European Union (EU) on migration control has drawn criticism, as it leads to serious violations of human rights, similar to the previous EU cooperation with Libya. Disembarking rescued migrants in Tunisia exposes them to dangers, such as being unlawfully sent to Libya and Algeria, where they face inhumane treatment. The Tunisian authorities have been…

France and Italy have launched a new project aimed at sharing information on migrant trafficking in an effort to control illegal migration. The interior ministers of both countries signed the agreement, which follows a similar deal that France has with the United Kingdom, created in 2020 to prevent migrants from crossing the Channel. This collaboration between France and Italy is expected to enhance efforts to combat human trafficking by coordinating judicial investigations and actions against the networks responsible. France’s new Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, is focused on tightening immigration laws, aligning with the country’s prime minister, who emphasized the need…

Mexican soldiers opened fire on a truck carrying 33 migrants near Huixtla, Chiapas, resulting in six deaths and ten injuries, according to a statement from the defense ministry. The incident occurred as the truck, reportedly attempting to evade a military patrol, was mistaken for a vehicle typically used by criminal groups in the area. Soldiers claimed they reacted after hearing explosions, which prompted them to shoot at the vehicle. While the nationalities of the deceased migrants have not yet been confirmed, the ministry reported that the group included individuals from Egypt, Nepal, Cuba, India, and Pakistan. Authorities are reaching out…

Generali Insurance, along with its charity foundation The Human Safety Net, has launched a new project aimed at providing professional training to 300 refugees and migrants in Italy. This initiative, announced in Rome on October 1, focuses on preparing individuals from 18 different countries to work in Italy’s social welfare and healthcare sectors. The project aims to help participants learn the Italian language, as well as obtain recognition for their educational qualifications to meet professional standards required in their respective fields. The beneficiaries of this program will receive training to work in various healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, and…

The Dominican Republic has announced plans to deport 10,000 Haitian migrants each week in a bid to manage the growing migration crisis. This move is part of the government’s efforts to safeguard national sovereignty while upholding human rights. Homero Figueroa, the presidential spokesman and director of strategy and communication, highlighted that these deportations are necessary due to the limited success of ongoing national and international attempts to control unregulated migration, particularly from Haiti. Figueroa explained that despite various initiatives, migration from Haiti continues to pose significant challenges. He stressed that the Dominican Republic now feels it must take decisive action…

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has launched an urgent appeal to raise USD 32.46 million to support 400,000 people displaced by the ongoing conflict in Lebanon. As violence along the borders intensifies, tens of thousands of families have been forced to leave their homes, seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters. Since October 2023, IOM has been providing crucial life-saving aid, including essential relief items, protection services, and health support to those affected. The organization is also monitoring internal displacement to better coordinate its efforts. Amy Pope, IOM’s Director General, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, calling on the international community…

The Ugandan government has introduced a new nationwide program aimed at better preparing workers who seek employment abroad. The program, led by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), focuses on ensuring that all migrant workers are properly trained and informed before they leave the country. This initiative marks a significant step in improving the safety and welfare of Ugandan workers who choose to work in other countries. According to Victoria Vanny Nabiteeka, the national program officer for IOM, the pre-employment orientation program is crucial for ensuring that migrant workers have the knowledge and skills they need for safe migration. She…