Statement by UNICEF Country Coordinator for the National Response in Italy, Nicola Dell’Arciprete
“UNICEF is deeply saddened by yet another shipwreck in the Mediterranean. This time, a pregnant mother is among those who have lost their lives off the coast of Lampedusa, Italy.
“An 18-month-old child travelling with their mother has also died. Around 30 people remain missing, including children. Our thoughts go out to all of those affected by this tragedy.
“At least 289 children have died or disappeared attempting to cross the Central Mediterranean Sea to Europe in the first six months of the year. Many shipwrecks on the Central Mediterranean Sea crossing leave no survivors or go unrecorded, making the true number of child casualties likely far higher.
“We urge those in power to create safer legal pathways for migration and asylum in the European Union, and for coordinated search and rescue operations that help prevent deaths at sea. More must be done to protect children in their countries of origin, countries of transit and countries of arrival.
“UNICEF is on the ground in Lampedusa, working with the Government and other partners to provide children and women with access to psychosocial support, health and specialized services for those at risk of violence, exploitation and abuse.”
