CEI: No direct funding to Mediterranea, only to two dioceses

Last Updated: December 12, 2023

The Italian Episcopal Conference clarifies that no direct funding was provided to the Mediterranea organization, but rather support was given to dioceses that presented projects for migrant reception, including support for sea rescues. The bishops express their dismay over the publication of private chats related to a judicial investigation, and emphasize the Church’s commitment to saving lives at sea. They defend the dioceses’ involvement in sea rescues and clarify that the financial support was much lower than reported in the media. The Church reiterates its commitment to the rescue and reception of migrants as a priority of its pastoral action.