During my stay in Israel I met Antonio Ferrari, a journalist working for the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, who was there on behalf of Gariwo.
This interview gave me the opportunity to talk about MOAS’ mission and MOAS ITALIA, which is now an NGO officially registered in my country of origin (Italy).
We explored MOAS’ inception, and how we have used drones to expand our SAR area and spot boats or dinghies in distress by sharing our information with the authorities charged with coordinating rescue activities.
Our drones – originally designed as war or espionage tools – have helped us to spot boats or dinghies and their passengers, who would have drowned without our interception. One of MOAS’ greatest strengths is our innovative and positive use of technology to assist those who risk their life at sea.
When asked what impresses me the most I mentioned the hope and courage that we see in the eyes of those rescued, who are able to look beyond the terror they experience during their terrible journey. Mothers and children are determined to reach a safe place where they can build a better future, despite the risks and precarious health conditions they face.
Fear is the worst response to migration, together with building walls and fences; they don’t help in finding a solution.
We need to understand such a complex reality
We are fully aware that rescuing people at sea is not the final solution. Nevertheless, as long as people risk dying of hope while crossing the sea, MOAS will do its best to rescue them.
Rescuers are usually the first people to help migrants without demanding something in return. For this reason, the people we rescue fall asleep soon after being rescued and fed. After a long and perilous journey, they are finally safe!
At the end of the interview I called for support for our mission through donations and other possible means since we are going to start our 2017 mission in April. Now, we need everyone’s help to mitigate the loss of lives at sea.
