In Resolution 2305 (2019) adopted last October, after an urgent debate on the report “Saving lives in the Mediterranean Sea: the need for an urgent response”, also prepared by Mr Hajduković, PACE called on member States to “allow non-governmental organisations to carry out their life-saving missions in the Mediterranean Sea, recognising their capacities to organise rapid-reaction rescues, and refrain from stigmatising the work of NGOs”. PACE, and in particular the Committee on Migration, Refugees and Displaced Persons, also co-operates with the Council of Europe’s INGO Conference.
“NGOs are criticised and hindered in carrying out their action by some countries, but it is clear that although they must operate within regulatory frameworks, without their efforts many more lives would be lost,” said the rapporteur.
Source: PACE