New Migrants Flock to Italy, Intensifying Immigration Debate

European nations like Italy entered security agreements with dictators in North Africa, including arms transfers, which slowed the waves of immigration over the past decade. As these dictators lose control and thousands of citizens flee north for Europe for a better life, managing immigration once again emerges as a priority for Italy. Some analysts argue that right-wing politicians raise fears about immigration and terrorism to distract from Italy’s domestic problems. Unskilled workers in Italy have blamed immigrants for high unemployment rates and declining wages. Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi and others have won elections by making illegal immigration a felony, requiring Italian language skills in exchange for residency permits and adding restrictions to work visas, reports Elisa Cozzarini for American New Media. Immigrants comprise about 7 percent of Italy’s population. Harsh policies could anger connected, savvy immigrants and spur activism, including a strike planned for 1 March. – YaleGlobal