After the great Messina, another tsunami has embarked on the shores of Italy. But this time, it is not water that is causing problems. 26000 immigrants mainly belonging to Tunisia and Libya have arrived on the island of Lampedusa which is more than the total population the island. Earlier Italy had taken responsibility for 20,000 immigrants. As the Immigrants keep pouring on the shores of Italy, it is looking towards the neighboring Schengen countries to give a helping hand. Italy has decided to issue a six month Schengen visa to these immigrants. This move has given Jitters to the European nations. Some are calling it the ‘Mafia Method’ of Italy.
France which is already struggling to create jobs for its people has probably been most skeptical of the decision taken by Italy. Expelling of Romanian a few months ago was a clear indication that Immigrants are not wanted in France. Recent ban on hijab reinforces this ideology. So it can be said for certain that France cannot be persuaded to take these immigrants even though most of the immigrants claim that they have relatives in France. France has tightened the control of documents and is taking all the necessary measures to ensure that these immigrants do not enter their territory.
Austria might not be as hostile to these immigrants as France but stands firm that It is not going to take them in. It has warned Italy that, if it presses them on this issue, they would be forced to take the same measures as France. Recent statement by Ausrian Interior Minister that “Italy is a nation that can still show a bit more goodwill to seriously resolve the issue”, is a clear indication that they want Italy to deal with these immigrants by them self.
Germany considers these people as ‘economic immigrants’, who have come to Europe just to earn their livelihoods. Germany is probably the only country in Europe which is still welcoming people coming from Asia and Africa for studies and career opportunities. If it is not accepting these immigrants, then the probability of other countries taking these immigrants is pretty bleak.
Other countries have also shown their concern on this issue. Spanish Interior minister has pointed out that taking these immigrants “will pave the way for crime”, which is not acceptable. Italy and France are patrolling the seas to prevent more immigrants from reaching Italy.
We can blame these countries for not being sensitive enough or we can blame the dictators of these respective countries for bringing misery to their people. But, I feel that as Muslims, we have ourselves to blame for being so corrupt and decieving that no one wants to give us refuge, even during this dire situation.
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