Italy rescues migrants - but more will come
Italy says 4,000 migrants have been rescued in the Mediterranean Sea in the past two days. Many Africans regard Italy as a gateway to Europe, but surviving the dangerous boat journey is only the first challenge.
Across the sea
Italy reported the 4,000 refugees were picked up in waters near the tiny island of Lampedusa. The group makes up the largest number of arrivals since Italy began its naval operation "Mare Nostrum" (Our Sea) to cope with the influx after two tragic shipwrecks last year.
Rescue mission
Five naval ships are currently operating in the region south of Lampedusa. Naval officials reported the latest wave of migrants had been intercepted by Italian merchant ships and coastguard vessels before being transferred to the ports of Augusta and Pozzallo in Sicily for health and security checks.
From Libya to Lampedusa
Around 15,000 migrants crossing the Mediterranean have been rescued so far this year, according to Italian Interior Minister Angelino Alfano. He believes up to 600,000 migrants from Africa and the Middle East are ready to set off from Libyan shores.
Gateway to Europe
Lampedusa is one of the biggest entry points for irregular migration into the European Union. The small island is located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) south of Sicily, and is only about 130 kilometers from Tunisia. This makes it an ideal bridge to Europe.
A perilous journey
Many refugees have lost their lives while crossing the sea to the Italian island. They often travel in overcrowded, unseaworthy boats, and shipwrecks are common. The greatest tragedy occurred on October 3, 2013, when 366 refugees drowned. On January 11, 2014, the Italian navy rescued about 200 refugees.
Plea for help
Following this week's rescue of 4,000 migrants, Italian Interior Minister Angelino Alfano demanded the European Union take action to combat people-smuggling. "There are death merchants who profit from this people-trafficking and who send out requests for help just 30 to 40 miles after leaving the Libyan coast," he said.
No island paradise
Many refugees from Africa and the Middle East come to Europe seeking to escape poverty and conflict. But once they arrive they have to live in refugee camps and go through a lengthy asylum application process. Immigration centers, like this one on Lampedusa, have been criticized for overcrowding and poor living conditions.
No place to go
Life can be tough even for those migrants who do reach the Italian mainland. Refugees are usually given temporary shelter, but after 10 months they must find their own place to stay. Many endure prejudice, struggle to find paid work and end up living in slums or on the street.