Why is this important?

There is a ship in the middle of the sea, on board exhausted men, pregnant women and children, while states choose to demonstrate strength and play political games at the expense of them. We need to show that this is not a Europe we want to live in!

The rescue of human lives always has to be priority. The controversy about the distribution of rescued people within Europe must be solved on land, and not be carried out at the expense of people in distress at sea. People rescued must be brought to a safe port without any delay. This is according to the law and to the most basic principle of humanity.

Owing to its geographical location and Dublin III regulations, Italy is currently carrying the main responsibility for welcoming rescued people and processing asylum applications.

We need a fair distribution mechanism of people seeking asylum which is not being enforced on the back of the most vulnerable ones.

While many roads lead to Rome, they are leading from Rome as well: we urge European states to make way for a political solution of a situation, brought about by their evasion of responsibility. Italy and its civil society may no longer be left alone with the consequences of failed European migration and asylum policies.

• Dublin III has to be abandoned and a fair distribution mechanism of people seeking asylum implemented.
• Europe must actively engage in creating safe and legal routes to prevent people from being forced to a situation of distress at sea.

This needs to be done in complete separation from rescue activities and the priority to bring people to a safe haven.

Our Europe is the Europe of humanity across borders, of open ports, and of solidarity in the minds and in the streets. We must not allow the political dispute over migration to take place on the backs of those in need of protection, now stranded at sea.

Photo credit: Tim Lüddemann / Sea-Watch.org

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