In 2024, Italy experienced an influx of over 30,000 migrants. UNICEF has assisted 600 of the most vulnerable, including women and children. Additionally, the UN Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that more than 900 individuals have either died or gone missing while trying to cross the Central Mediterranean to reach Italy.
Over the past year, UNICEF has worked with local prefectures to support vulnerable migrants, assisting 600 individuals. This group included 453 unaccompanied girls, 50 women, and 90 families. Their support has been vital for those facing unique vulnerabilities, such as exploitation, violence, or abuse experienced during their journey or in their home countries.
In 2024, among the 30,000 migrants arriving in Italy, 6.5 percent were women and 20 percent were girls, many traveling alone in search of safety and better living conditions. UNICEF highlighted the importance of a swift and integrated approach in providing protection and support to these vulnerable populations. Nicola Dell’Arciprete, coordinator of UNICEF’s response in Italy, emphasized the need for prompt activation of social and health services to prevent vulnerable individuals from leaving formal support systems.
The IOM reported that from January to July 2024, 408 people died and 512 went missing on the Central Mediterranean route. During this period, 11,651 migrants were stopped at sea and sent back to Libya. This group included more than 10,000 men, 830 women, 385 children, and 136 people whose gender was unknown.
Dell’Arciprete highlighted the success of a quick, integrated approach combined with local child welfare services. This strategy is crucial for managing and safeguarding vulnerable migrants. It not only provides immediate protection but also upholds the rights of those seeking refuge in Italy.