Italy

The election of a coalition government led by a hard-right, nationalist party raised serious concerns about more abusive migration policies and restrictions on reproductive rights. Italy renewed its cooperation with Libya supporting the intercept of boats and return of migrants and asylum seekers to abuse in that country, while obstructing and criminalizing rescue at sea by humanitarian organisations. Poverty levels remain at a record high, impeding people’s enjoyment of their economic and social rights. Significant barriers to accessing abortion, including high rates of conscientious objection, remained. The European Commission raised rule of law concerns with respect to judicial independence and efficiency, while noting shrinking civil society space.