Migration situation in Italy

In 2023, the number of migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea and arriving in Italy has increased, mainly through the Central Mediterranean route (Tunisia, Libya). Other arrivals have been recorded also through the Eastern Mediterranean route (Türkiye) and the Balkan route (Slovenia). Between January and July 2023, more than 89'000 people arrived in Italy over sea. This represents an increase of 115 % compared with the same period last year. 12 % of all persons arriving are unaccompanied children.

Law enforcement staff at borders needs qualified supporting teams that are able to quickly communicate with migrants and inform them about procedures, while ensuring that migrants’ rights and protection needs are respected and taken into consideration. Over the past years, the presence of qualified staff from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has contributed to the good border management and fostered dialogue both with migrants and neighbouring authorities in the daily case management.

Project objectives

The project aims to improve and speed up identification and asylum procedures in Italy as well as to ensure that migrants receive appropriate treatment, giving special attention to vulnerable persons such as unaccompanied minors and victims of trafficking.

The launch event concludes an intensive 18 months period of preparing the foundation of the new Swiss-Polish Cooperation Programme.  Until 2029, Switzerland is providing over CHF 320 million to Poland for reducing social and economic disparities, promoting bilateral cooperation and strengthening knowledge exchange.

“The Swiss-Polish Cooperation Programme has been jointly designed to create a positive long-term impact for Polish citizens and at the same time strengthen the ties between our two countries, enable lasting partnerships and promote the development of innovative solutions for a better world together”, said Ambassador Fabrice Filliez in his opening address.

Participants were presented with the funding opportunities in Poland in the coming years and had the chance to network and exchange ideas in view of the forthcoming calls for proposals. The Swiss Contribution in Poland is channelled through two programmes:

Development of Towns

CHF 278.7 million are dedicated to address the strategic needs of marginalized medium-sized Polish cities that are facing negative trends and challenges of different nature. Local authorities of selected cities will be assisted in developing and implementing long-term urban development strategies in close collaboration with citizens, civil society and the private sector for making these cities an inclusive and attractive place to live and work. The Programme furthermore aims to foster exchanges and partnerships with Swiss cities.

Research and Innovation

CHF 35 million are allocated for boosting research excellence as well as innovation capacities of Polish research institutions and the private sector in cooperation with Swiss and other international partners. The Programme offers funding opportunities for both basic and applied research projects.  

The calls for applications in the Development of Towns Programme and Basic Research Programme are planned to be announced in January 2024. The first call for applications of the Applied Research Programme is scheduled for spring 2024.

For further information and updates on announcements of the calls for applications visit the official Swiss-Polish Cooperation Programme website.