Portrait of Giorgia Meloni
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Giorgia Meloni on Migration Policy (General)

Stop Illegal Immigration (strong) Position evolved

Giorgia Meloni's general position on migration policy is characterized by a strong focus on combating illegal immigration and ensuring border security. She has historically supported measures such as a naval blockade to prevent migrants from reaching Italian shores.

Her approach emphasizes a distinction between different categories of arrivals, explicitly stating support for refugee status for those escaping war, while advocating for stricter measures for others not fleeing conflict zones. This reflects a core tenet of her national-conservative platform: prioritizing national sovereignty and security in migration matters.

Since becoming Prime Minister, Meloni has translated these views into action by implementing more stringent controls. Furthermore, she has linked the issue to demographic concerns, seeking to boost the Italian birth rate as a way to reduce the need for migrant labor, thereby linking migration policy with domestic social policy goals.

Context

Giorgia Meloni has made migration a cornerstone of her political identity, both as a leader in opposition and as Prime Minister. Her party, Brothers of Italy (FdI), campaigned heavily on themes of national identity and securing Italy's borders against irregular arrivals.

Her historical association with the national-conservative movement informs her view that mass migration poses a threat to Italian national and cultural identity, often framing the issue in terms of national security and preservation. Her rhetoric often centers on stopping the smugglers and the boats rather than solely focusing on humanitarian reception.

Actions Taken

  1. Policy implementation
    Implemented stricter policies than previous governments regarding the fight against illegal immigration shortly after taking office.
  2. International agreement
    Signed an agreement with Tunisian President Kais Saied focusing on strengthening the economic partnership and, especially, the fight against irregular migration flows.
  3. Diplomatic appeal/Action
    In the context of a major migration event on Lampedusa, wrote to the European Commission President to ask for immediate acceleration of the agreement with Tunisia and transfer of agreed resources.
  4. Crisis response/Policy statement
    The government approved a decree-law following the sinking of a boat near Cutro, with Meloni expressing sorrow for the lives lost to human traffickers.

Key Quotes

No to mass migration, yes to secure borders.

Vox's party congress speech October 1, 2021 — Stating her core principles at a Spanish far-right party congress.

It's time to call things by their name, to give refugee status to those fleeing war, women, and children, perhaps doing the opposite with those who aren't refugees.

Social Media Post/Statement September 1, 2022 — Addressing the distinction between war refugees and other asylum seekers.

I consider the exchange of migrants' lives for the 'price' of a ticket paid by them in the false prospect for a safe voyage. Deep sorrow for the many human lives torn away by human traffickers.

Statement following Cutro shipwreck February 26, 2023 — Expressing grief after the migrant boat tragedy near Cutro.

Related Positions

  • Ethnic Substitution / Great Replacement Meloni has endorsed the Great Replacement theory, linking pro-immigration policies to an alleged left-wing conspiracy to replace Italians with immigrants.
  • Foreign Policy towards Africa She blames neo-colonialism for Africa's underdevelopment and the migration crisis, advocating for cooperation over French neocolonialism while launching the Mattei Plan for African investment.
  • Citizenship Laws She is explicitly opposed to birthright citizenship proposals for foreigners born and living in Italy.

Criticism

Some critics

Described Meloni as xenophobic and Islamophobic due to her hardline stance against illegal immigration and multiculturalism.

The opposition parties and civil rights associations

Criticized the government's actions, such as the decree following the Cutro tragedy, for potentially undermining the right to peaceful protest when new security measures were discussed.

Critics and observers

Pointed to her past rhetoric, such as calling immigration 'ethnic substitution' in 2017, as evidence of an extreme view on migration.

Comparison

  • Meloni's government implemented stricter policies on illegal immigration compared to the preceding government led by Mario Draghi.
  • She supports legal immigration pathways, notably through the Mattei Plan for African cooperation, but is staunchly against what she defines as illegal immigration.
  • Her government sought to compel the European Union, particularly via deals with Tunisia, to take a more active role in managing and halting Mediterranean migration flows.