Mohamed Ali Nafti reiterated on Wednesday that Tunisia continues to support a policy of voluntary returns, describing it as a mechanism to safeguard irregular migrants on Tunisian soil rather than forcibly removing Tunisian nationals suspected of crimes abroad.
Tunisia, a key transit country for migrants attempting to reach Europe, has intensified efforts to prevent dangerous sea crossings. As of the end of February 2026, 432 migrants had arrived in Italy after departing from Tunisia’s coastline, according to the United Nations refugee agency.
Nafti acknowledged the country’s burden in managing irregular migration, stating, “We have done what we can, and have taken the responsibility that was forced on us.”
The start of 2026 has proven particularly deadly for migrants attempting the Mediterranean crossing, with the United Nations’ International Organization for Migration confirming 682 missing persons as of March 16 — the deadliest beginning of any year recorded on this route. Experts warn the actual death toll is likely much higher.
Human rights groups face challenges in verifying casualties, as Italy, Tunisia, and Malta have restricted access to information on migrant rescues and shipwrecks. This lack of transparency has also limited media coverage of the crisis, leaving many deaths unreported.
Tunisia’s approach highlights the delicate balance governments in North Africa are attempting: controlling irregular migration flows while managing humanitarian responsibilities in one of the world’s most perilous migration corridors.
