Francesco Savino, the vice-president of the Italian Bishops Conference (CEI), has voiced strong concerns regarding the treatment of migrants, especially following a recent court ruling in Italy. In an interview with ANSA on October 20, he highlighted the plight of 12 migrants who were returned to Italy after their detention in newly opened Italian-run centers in Albania was deemed unlawful by a Rome court.
“Migrants are brothers and sisters with their dignity, not packages to be shoved from one place to another,” Savino emphasized. He pointed out the suffering endured by these individuals, particularly during harsh weather conditions at sea. Savino criticized the current focus on security over human dignity, warning of a “clash of powers” that threatens democracy.
Reflecting on Italy’s migration laws, Savino noted that recent policies, including the Bossi-Fini law and the Cutro decree, reflect a mindset that treats migrants as adversaries. “There is an attitude focusing on security that goes beyond any form of objective reality,” he stated. His remarks came after the court ruled against the government’s plan to externalize migrants to Albania, which it found problematic due to safety concerns in their countries of origin, including Bangladesh and Egypt.
Savino also expressed disappointment about the financial resources allocated to this initiative, questioning the sacrifices being asked of Italian citizens. He emphasized that the CEI has previously raised concerns about the externalization of migrants to Albania, reflecting a broader unease about the treatment of these individuals.
The court’s decision has sparked criticism from government officials who claim the judiciary is overstepping its boundaries. Savino, however, believes that a lack of mutual respect among powers undermines public trust in democracy. “Without reciprocal respect, the lack of confidence of citizens is fueled, and people move away, they don’t vote anymore because they don’t believe in the possibility of change,” he asserted.
Echoing the sentiments of Pope Francis, Savino reiterated the CEI’s stance that the focus should be on “strengthening bridges” rather than building walls. He stressed the importance of a compassionate approach to hosting migrants, advocating for serious and responsible measures that respect their dignity. The bishops have consistently urged for policies that treat migrants as individuals deserving respect and support, rather than as mere statistics or burdens.
With the centers in Albania currently empty and the migrants being brought back to Italy, Savino warned that the accelerated procedures employed by the government could compromise the thorough consideration of individual circumstances. He concluded by reaffirming the CEI’s commitment to placing the dignity of people at the forefront of any migration discourse.