Migrant Boat Sinks Near Lampedusa, Leaving 6 Dead and 40 Missing

The tragedy has intensified scrutiny on Italy's restrictive migration policies and externalized asylum agreements with Tunisia and Albania.

An inflatable dinghy carrying 56 migrants from Tunisia sank on March 18, resulting in six confirmed deaths and 40 missing individuals.
Italian authorities rescued 10 survivors, including four women and six men, near the island of Lampedusa.
The migrants, hailing from countries such as Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Mali, and Guinea, faced rough seas that likely contributed to the boat's deflation and sinking.
Critics argue that Italy's policies, including restrictions on NGO rescue operations and agreements to externalize asylum processes, exacerbate risks for migrants.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government has faced international criticism for measures aimed at curbing migration, with some agreements still under legal review.