Welcome to Italy: 700 Afghan Refugees to be Welcomed Through Humanitarian Corridors Program
Thanks to a new agreement between the Community of Sant’Egidio and various Italian ministries and organizations, 700 refugees from Afghanistan will be welcomed into Italy through the Community’s ‘humanitarian corridors’ program. This initiative aims to provide a safe and secure pathway for refugees seeking asylum in Europe.
In a press release issued by the Community, its President, Marco Impagliazzo, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to offer hope and support to Afghan refugees who have endured great suffering. He emphasized the importance of humanitarian corridors as a model for welcoming and integrating refugees, especially in times of global conflict and displacement.
This collaborative effort, which is entirely self-funded, has already facilitated the safe arrival of 8,200 refugees in Europe. The program relies on a network of hospitality and the generosity of Italian citizens to provide essential support to those in need.
The signing of the agreement took place at Italy’s Ministry of the Interior and involved key stakeholders such as the Ministries of the Interior and Foreign Affairs, the Italian Episcopal Conference, Sant’Egidio, and other church and international organizations. This agreement builds upon a previous initiative in 2021 that successfully integrated 812 Afghan citizens into Italian society.
Italy has already welcomed 338 individuals under this program, with plans to accommodate an additional 362 refugees in the coming months. The commitment to supporting Afghan refugees reflects Italy’s dedication to humanitarian principles and solidarity with those fleeing conflict and persecution.
As we witness a troubling increase in global tensions and displacement, initiatives like the humanitarian corridors program offer a beacon of hope for vulnerable populations seeking refuge and security. The partnership between the Community of Sant’Egidio and Italian authorities exemplifies the power of collaboration in addressing humanitarian crises and providing assistance to those in need.
