Overview
- An appeal by lawmakers from the SPD, Greens, and Left, published Saturday, urges the federal government to protect sea rescue work and push the EU to run and fund operations in the Mediterranean.
- The lawmakers cite UN migration agency data showing about 660 people dead or missing on the route in January and February 2026, the highest early-year toll since records began in 2014.
- They call for rescues that follow maritime law, prompt disembarkation at safe ports, and an EU system to share responsibility for people brought ashore.
- The appeal says the Bundeswehr should not work with Libya’s coast guard and urges the release of people held in Libyan detention, noting reports of torture, sexual violence, and forced labor.
- The move follows Berlin’s cut to NGO rescue funding after the previous coalition had provided about €2 million a year, and 32 SPD signatories signal pressure from within the governing camp.