The Criminalisation of Humanitarian Assistance and the Importance of Advocacy

The Criminalisation of Humanitarian Assistance and the Importance of Advocacy

Introduction:
The criminalisation of humanitarian volunteers assisting migrants in distress at sea has had intended and unintended effects on the work of these individuals. As legal and quasi-legal mechanisms continue to control and hold humanitarian actors accountable, the ability to provide assistance to those in need becomes increasingly challenging. This article explores the curtailment of humanitarian space, the merging of security policies, migration control, and criminal justice, and the rise in arrests of individuals offering crucial support to migrants. Additionally, we will delve into the efforts made by organizations and passionate individuals to combat this criminalisation through workshops and advocacy.

The Curtailment of Humanitarian Space:
Humanitarian actors have long been at the forefront of providing aid and support to vulnerable populations, including migrants. However, restrictive NGO legislation and the merging of security policies, migration control, and criminal justice have severely limited their ability to assist those in need. The result is a curtailment of humanitarian space, where organizations and individuals face punishment for their efforts to alleviate the suffering of displaced individuals.

The Mounting Arrests of Humanitarian Actors:
In recent years, Europe has witnessed a significant increase in the number of arrests of humanitarian actors assisting migrants. This includes volunteers, ship captains, crew members, priests, journalists, and even mayors. These individuals have been detained for saving lives, providing essential humanitarian assistance such as food, shelter, and transportation. The alarming rise in arrests has been labeled the "criminalisation of solidarity" by NGOs and supporters of migrants. In 2015, there were only 10 such cases, while in 2018, the number rose to 104. This trend is particularly prevalent in countries where far-right parties, relying on anti-immigration rhetoric, hold power.

The Impact on Humanitarian Assistance:
The criminalisation of humanitarian assistance has had far-reaching implications for both the individuals involved and the migrants they seek to help. The fear of legal consequences has led to a reluctance among volunteers and professionals to provide aid, resulting in a significant gap in support for those in distress. The merging of security policies and migration control has further exacerbated this issue, as the priority shifts from humanitarian aid to border control and deterrence. This shift in focus not only denies migrants their right to assistance but also perpetuates a cycle of marginalization and vulnerability.

Addressing Criminalisation through Workshops and Advocacy:
To combat the criminalisation of humanitarian assistance, organizations and individuals have taken proactive measures. Workshops, such as those offered by ECA Maastricht, provide practical and interactive platforms for participants to gain experience and valuable feedback. Led by experts in the field, these workshops aim to enhance skills, revise approaches, and strengthen advocacy efforts. ECA members can also benefit from CV Enhancement Sessions, where small-group meetings facilitate the revision and polishing of CVs, with a focus on individual cases and constructive feedback.

Actionable Advice:

1. Stay Informed and Engage: Stay updated on the latest developments in the criminalisation of humanitarian assistance. Engage in discussions, forums, and workshops to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by volunteers and professionals in this field.

2. Strengthen Advocacy Efforts: Support organizations and initiatives that advocate for the protection of humanitarian actors and the rights of migrants. Join campaigns, sign petitions, and contribute to raising awareness about the importance of providing assistance to those in need.

3. Foster Collaboration: Encourage collaboration between NGOs, government agencies, and other stakeholders to bridge the gap between security policies and humanitarian action. By working together, it is possible to find common ground and develop more inclusive approaches to migration and assistance.

Conclusion:
The criminalisation of humanitarian assistance poses significant challenges to the work of volunteers and professionals in supporting migrants. The curtailment of humanitarian space and the merging of security policies and migration control hinder the provision of much-needed aid. However, through workshops, advocacy efforts, and collaboration, the criminalisation can be addressed and mitigated. It is crucial to remain informed, engaged, and proactive in order to protect the rights of both humanitarian actors and vulnerable populations. By working together, we can strive for a more compassionate and inclusive approach to assisting those in distress at sea.