Amid increasing challenges, rescuers aboard the Ocean Viking remain determined to continue saving lives despite the Italian government’s crackdown on charity ships assisting migrants in the Mediterranean. The stringent rules imposed by Rome, aimed at curbing the activities of NGO vessels, have not dampened the resolve of crew members like Salvador.
Salvador, an Argentinian rescuer onboard the Ocean Viking, criticizes the regulations that hinder their work, such as being required to travel long distances to disembark rescued migrants in distant ports. These restrictions not only increase operational costs but also hamper efficiency, as seen in the additional 21,000 kilometers traveled by the Ocean Viking in 2023 alone.
Despite facing fines and ship seizures for non-compliance with Italian directives, rescue charities stress the importance of their role in preventing drownings at sea. Spanish rescuer David pushes back against accusations that charity ships aid human traffickers, emphasizing the ethical duty to save lives.
As challenges mount, including the ban on surveillance planes spotting migrant boats and the EU’s tougher immigration policies, rescuers like David remain steadfast in their commitment to humanitarian efforts, driven by what they consider an ethical imperative.