Central Idea

• Italy’s Lampedusa Island witnessed an influx of migrants after around 7,000 people arrived from North Africa in two days.
• Nearly 1,26,000 migrants have arrived in Italy so far this year.

About Lampedusa Island

• Lampedusa is the largest of the Italian Pelagie Islands in the Mediterranean Sea.
• It is located approximately 205 km southwest of Sicily, 113 km east of Tunisia, and about 176 kmnorth of Libya.
• It is part of the Sicilian region of Italy and is situated in the southern Mediterranean Sea.
• It covers an area of approximately 20.2 square km (7.8 square miles).
• It has a rich history, with influences from various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Normans.
• During World War II, the island was of strategic importance and saw military activity.
• It has been part of Italy since 1860.

Migration and Humanitarian Issues

• Lampedusa has been a focal point for migration from Africa to Europe, with many migrants and refugees attempting to reach the island by boat.
• This has led to humanitarian challenges and efforts to manage immigration.
• The island has received international attention for its role in rescue operations and the reception of migrants and asylum seekers.

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