Italy Suspends Open-Border Agreement with Slovenia Over Terrorism Concerns

In a move aimed at addressing heightened security concerns, Italy has made the decision to suspend its open-border agreement with neighboring Slovenia. The Italian government expressed growing apprehensions about the increased threat of terrorism in Europe, primarily attributed to the ongoing violence in the Middle East.

Italian Lawmakers Approve $10.5M for Long-Awaited Holocaust Museum in Rome

This decision follows a unanimous approval by Italian lawmakers to allocate $10.5 million for the construction of a Holocaust museum in Rome. Spearheaded by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's far-right-led government, this decision comes in the wake of mounting challenges posed by illegal border crossings.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government highlighted that, in the northeastern border region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, approximately 16,000 individuals have entered Italy illegally across the Slovenian border this year alone. The Slovenian border serves as the final gateway on the Balkan route that some migrants use to gain entry into western Europe. This figure adds to the already significant influx of migrants arriving in Italy by sea, with 2023 witnessing an 85% increase in comparison to 2022, totaling around 140,000 arrivals.

Interior Ministry's Anti-Terrorism Committee Investigates

In response to these developments, Italy's government has noted the essential role of reinforcing Italy's borders. The Interior Ministry's anti-terrorism committee has been actively investigating the situation, further highlighting the pressing nature of the matter.

Border Controls Resume on October 21

In light of these concerns, Italy has announced that it will reinstate border controls, commencing on October 21 and lasting for ten days. This measure aims to enhance security and mitigate the risks associated with unregulated border crossings.

Italy and Slovenia in Schengen Area

Italy and Slovenia are among the 27 countries that constitute the Schengen area, which stands as the world's largest free travel zone. This suspension of the open-border agreement represents a significant shift in policy aimed at safeguarding national and regional security interests.