While rough seas have temporarily brought peace to the Italian island of Lampedusa, rescuers are preparing for new migrant boats that are anticipated as soon as the weather improves.
As European states disagree over who is responsible for taking in asylum seekers, this small tourist spot off the coast of North Africa, known for its coves and crystal-clear waters, has come to represent boat arrivals.
Early this month, around 8,500 people arrived in only three days as part of a sharp increase in Mediterranean crossings that the far-right of Europe has dubbed a “invasion.”
Thousands of migrants set up temporary metal cots in and around the welcome center, a prefabricated structure hidden behind high fencing with space for 400 people, as tourists lounged on sun loungers.
The boats that primarily transport sub-Saharan Africans across to Europe have since been grounded by bad weather near Tunisia and Libya, but the 6,500 or so residents here are aware that more may soon come.
The assistance workers also do this. The Italian Red Cross, which manages the center, is determined to ensure they have adequate stock after running out the last time, according to Serena Corniglia, a spokesman.
She told AFP that the workers are “equipping ourselves with more (first aid) kits and more food so that we don’t get caught unprepared”
While the majority of the migrants who just arrived have already been sent to the mainland, some 100 youngsters who traveled alone are now receiving special assistance.
“We have specialised operators and volunteers… with whom they carry out specific activities, checking in particular that they don’t need additional health or psychological support”, she said.
