A total of 94,290 migrants were received at the hotspot on the Italian island of Lampedusa between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024. Of these, 72.4% were men, 9.4% were women, and 18.2% were minors. Over the year, there were 2,264 disembarkation operations, with an average daily presence of 698 people who stayed for an average of 2.67 days before being transferred elsewhere.

The migrants came from 47 countries, with the largest numbers arriving from Guinea (13.7%), Tunisia (13.1%), Bangladesh (9.7%), Syria (8.7%), and Ivory Coast (8.4%). These five countries accounted for 53.6% of the total arrivals.

Also read: Hundreds of migrants reach Lampedusa on various arrivals

Lampedusa hotspot turned into 'bastion of humanity'

Italian Red Cross president Rosario Valastro took stock of the past year of his organization's management of the hotspot.

"A year ago I said that we would transform Lampedusa into a bastion of humanity and, thanks to the commitment of volunteers, workers, to the support of the authorities, of other associations, of the population, thanks to the transfers, I believe that this has happened," he said.

"Every day, we underlined the importance of protecting the human dignity of everyone, at all times, proving ourselves capable of helping, welcoming, rescuing, moving and smiling. This has made the difference, as it has for 160 years in everything we do," he added.

Also read: Red Cross to manage migrant hotspot at Sicily's Porto Empedocle

Addressing vulnerabilities and special needs

"The phenomenon of migration can no longer be seen as an extraordinary occurrence but must instead be conceived as part of our history, our present, and our daily lives. It must be addressed with human respect for those fleeing difficult situations, conflicts, crises, famines, and violence, in search of a better tomorrow where their lives and the future of their children are no longer threatened," Valastro continued.

During the period in question, 1,827 reports were filed for individuals with vulnerabilities or special needs. This included 1,155 people with healthcare needs, 698 pregnant women, 374 victims of psychological, physical, or sexual violence, 50 victims of torture, 255 people with disabilities, 89 individuals suffering from serious illnesses or mental problems, 25 potential victims of trafficking, and 14 victims of female genital mutilation.

Also read: Lampedusa: 'Everyone is doing their best,' residents offer help to migrants