A new report by ActionAid and Openpolis sheds light on administrative deficiencies and a surge in direct procurement within Italy’s emergency reception system, indicating a lack of transparency and efficacy. Criticisms are directed at the Meloni government’s migration policies, accused of institutionalizing practices violating migrants’ and minors’ rights.
The report, titled “A Predictable Failure: Centers in Italy 2023,” reveals that Emergency Reception Centers (CAS) constitute 60 percent of the national shelter system. It outlines a scenario of administrative chaos, unanswered tenders, and a substantial increase in direct procurement, amounting to contracts totaling 83.1 million euros in the first eight months of 2023 alone.
According to ActionAid, the return to problems reminiscent of those following the 2018 Security Decree is alarming despite no significant emergency in migrant arrivals. Figures from the Interior Ministry indicate a stable number of sheltered individuals in 2023, yet the Meloni government’s migration decrees are accused of institutionalizing illegitimate practices.
The proliferation of migration laws under the Meloni government, with minor changes introduced through decrees, has drawn criticism. Fabrizio Coresi, Migration expert for ActionAid, highlights concerns over holding minors in CAS adult centers, jeopardizing their well-being. Moreover, overcrowded centers compromise sanitation and security standards.
The report’s findings are derived from data provided by the Italian Interior Ministry and the National Anti-Corruption Authority (ANAC), analyzing over 3,000 tenders for shelter center management issued by Prefectures between 2020 and 2023. It reveals significant issues with unanswered tenders, leading to repeated calls and increased costs.
SAI centers, catering exclusively to refugees, accounted for 36.7 percent of total shelter places in 2022, with the majority distributed among CAS. Regional disparities are noted, with the South housing the highest number of individuals and the North East demonstrating the highest incidence of refugees relative to the resident population.
ActionAid underscores the urgent need for reform in Italy’s shelter system. It urges transparency, efficiency, and respect for migrants’ rights amidst ongoing administrative challenges.