Italy's conservative government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, announces a remarkable achievement in curbing illegal immigration. The nation has seen a 64% drop in illegal immigration over the past year, a feat the government attributes to key diplomatic and economic agreements with North African nations.

Italy credits financial deals with Tunisia, Libya, and other countries for this sharp decline while emphasizing its ongoing battle against human trafficking networks, Fox News reported.

This reduction in illegal immigration is part of a broader strategy that Meloni's government has focused on since taking office. Financial agreements with countries such as Tunisia and Libya have played a central role, with Italy supporting these nations economically in exchange for their help in controlling the flow of migrants.

Financial Agreements Key to Immigration Decline

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani credits these financial deals with North African nations as the critical element in reducing migrant arrivals. According to Tajani, the agreements help these countries strengthen their border controls and deter human traffickers from sending migrants across the Mediterranean.

“It’s not easy. We’ve worked hard to achieve this goal,” Tajani said. He emphasizes that Italy’s focus is not on legal immigration, but solely on halting illegal immigration, which criminal organizations often control.

Human Trafficking and Organized Crime Targeted

A central aspect of Italy’s strategy involves tackling the human trafficking organizations responsible for transporting migrants. Authorities consider these traffickers, who are also linked to weapon and drug smuggling, a significant part of Italy’s fight against organized crime.

Tajani further highlights that these criminal networks are deeply intertwined. “Human traffickers are the most important part of crime,” he explained. “They are human traffickers, weapon traffickers, drug traffickers. They belong to the same organization, but we need to be very strong and fight against these organizations, and we are doing it.”

Prime Minister Meloni echoes this sentiment, stressing the increasing power of these trafficking organizations. She notes that their growing financial strength poses a threat to the stability of Italy and other European nations. "These organizations are always becoming more powerful, and they use their power and the money they have against the state," Meloni said. "We cannot allow a mafia to decide who’s coming into our countries."

Conservative Policies Receive International Attention

Italy's success in reducing illegal immigration has gained attention beyond its borders. U.K. Prime Minister Kier Starmer, despite being on the opposite end of the political spectrum, praised Italy's conservative government for its effective immigration policies.

However, while many on the right celebrate these achievements, some critics voice their concerns. Opponents argue that the financial agreements with North African nations may not address the root causes of migration, such as poverty and conflict, and that more comprehensive solutions are needed.

Global Instability Fuels Public Support for Conservatives

Meloni points to global instability as a significant factor in the rise of support for conservative policies. She argues that events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine War have heightened public awareness of the differences between conservative and liberal approaches to governance.

Under her leadership, the Italian economy has improved. Unemployment has decreased, and the Italian stock market has risen, providing a backdrop of economic growth that strengthens her government’s standing.

Italian Economy Sees Gains, But More Reforms Needed

While the economy has improved, Foreign Minister Tajani acknowledged that more work is needed to ensure lasting prosperity. "The economy now is going up in Italy," Tajani said. "We are not very happy, but we are happy because there is less unemployment and the stock exchange is going up."

Tajani emphasized the need for further reforms, particularly in reducing taxes, to sustain economic growth. "We need to do more," he stated, adding that lowering taxes will be a key part of the government’s strategy in the coming year.

Italy’s Fight Against Trafficking Linked to Broader Goals

Meloni’s government positions the fight against illegal immigration as part of a larger battle against organized crime. The emphasis on tackling traffickers, many of whom engage in a range of illicit activities, underscores the government’s holistic approach to crime prevention.

By reducing illegal immigration, Meloni’s administration aims to weaken the financial foundations of these trafficking networks. This, in turn, should diminish their influence in other areas of crime, such as drug smuggling and arms trafficking.

Public Support Reflects Growing Concern Over Immigration

Public opinion in Italy increasingly supports stricter immigration policies, driven by fears over national security and economic strain. Meloni’s government has tapped into this sentiment, presenting its policies as a solution to the challenges posed by mass migration.

As the Italian economy improves and the effects of Meloni's immigration policies become more evident, it remains unclear whether her government will maintain momentum in both areas.

Future Reforms and Challenges Ahead

Despite the progress in both immigration control and economic performance, the Italian government continues to face challenges. Tajani’s call for further tax reforms highlights the need to strengthen the economy through ongoing efforts.

With the reduction in illegal immigration and improvements in the economy, Meloni’s government appears poised to capitalize on its successes. However, the complex nature of international migration and organized crime means Italy’s fight is far from over.