Representatives from around 20 nations, including EU officials and international organizations, met in Rome for a one-day conference convened by Italy’s Premier Giorgia Meloni. The conference aimed to address issues impacting Mediterranean countries, such as energy concerns and illegal migration. African leaders, including Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed and Tunisia’s President Kaies Saied, were among the attendees. Human rights groups expressed concerns about potential anti-migrant policies resulting from the conference.

Meloni emphasized the need for future cooperation in combating migrant trafficking, managing flows, supporting refugees, and aiding countries of origin. The event also highlighted the importance of considering the right to not be compelled to emigrate due to poverty.

The conference occurred amidst the backdrop of migrants being pushed back from Tunisia into Libya, leading to dire conditions for those stranded in the desert. The Mediterranean remains the deadliest migration route globally, with over 1,900 migrants missing or dead this year alone.

Financial agreements were discussed, including the EU’s promise of significant funds to aid Tunisia’s economy and address border control and migration-related challenges.

Tunisian President Kais Saied emphasized that Tunisia will not permit Europe-bound migrants to settle in the country and called for a new global financial institution to address migration’s root causes.

Migrants taking the dangerous journey across Africa’s deserts often face abuse and pay traffickers large sums, with many losing their lives at sea while attempting to reach Europe in fragile boats.