Key Figures
Oct 2015 – 27 Sep 2016
1,196 persons relocated
3,809 places pledged
39,600 target
As of 27 Sep 2016
Over 20,000 potential relocation candidates arrived to Italy by sea since the adoption of the September 2015 EU Council decisions on relocation. However, the number of relocation transfers and pledges remains low, compared to the potential applicants. Furthermore, more people are staying in Italy than in previous years, also due to increased border controls in the northern areas.
Since September 2015, 1,196 asylum-seekers (3% of the 39,600 target) were relocated from Italy to 16 European countries. While some participating States have showed greater commitment towards relocation, the number of pledges made available continues to be inadequate and implementation remains slow and challenging. UNHCR calls on States to increase pledges, including for unaccompanied and separated children and to speed up the registration and transfers of candidates. In addition, the eligibility threshold should be lowered to include nationalities to benefit from the relocation scheme. Effective relocation is crucial to increasing solidarity and responsibility sharing in Europe, and ensuring the better management of movements, including helping to address irregular secondary movement and reliance on smuggler networks.