Germany’s foreign minister has defended the decision to cut funding for sea rescue operations in the Mediterranean, ending support for NGOs involved in the effort. The move has raised concerns over a potential worsening of the humanitarian crisis. The minister argued that the funding cuts are necessary to reallocate resources toward more sustainable migration management solutions within Europe.
International observers have expressed alarm over the potential consequences of the funding cut, warning that it could lead to more migrant deaths in the Mediterranean. Human rights organizations have joined the warnings, emphasizing the critical role that NGO-led rescue operations play in preventing maritime tragedies. The decision has also drawn criticism from some European Union member states, which have called for a more unified approach to addressing the migration crisis.
Germany’s foreign ministry stated that the funding shift is part of a broader strategy to ensure a more efficient and coordinated response to migration challenges. However, critics argue that the move undermines existing efforts to protect vulnerable migrants at sea. The government has dismissed these concerns, asserting that the new approach will better align with long-term security and economic interests.