As we observe International Migrants Day on 18 December 2023, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the journeys, challenges, and contributions of millions of individuals who have chosen to make a new home in foreign lands for protection, education, healthcare, or work for economic welfare. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of recognising and respecting the rights of migrants, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating the richness that diversity brings to societies worldwide.

<h2>Who is an International Migrant?</h2>

The definition of an international migrant, according to the United Nations, includes any individual who has relocated to a different country of residence, irrespective of their legal status, the nature of their movement, or the motives driving their migration.

<h2>The Significance of International Migrants Day</h2>

International Migrants Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2000 to recognise the rights of migrants and promote awareness about the positive contributions they make to both their host and home countries. This day also highlights the need for safe and orderly migration and encourages dialogue on the challenges faced by migrants. 
&nbsp;

<h2> 
International Migrants Day Diversity</h2>

In 2023, the global community stands at a crossroads, facing numerous economic, political, and environmental challenges. As these challenges persist, the number of people seeking refuge or better opportunities in foreign lands continues to grow. International Migrants Day provides an opportunity to emphasise the importance of embracing diversity and recognising the strength that comes from the exchange of cultures, ideas, and perspectives. As of July 1, 2020, the estimated global count of international migrants reached 281 million, making up approximately 3.5 per cent&nbsp;of the world's population. This percentage has experienced a gradual rise, growing from 2.3 per cent&nbsp;in 1980 to 2.8 per cent&nbsp;in 2000.

&nbsp;

<h2>Resilience in the Face of Adversity</h2>

Migrants often embark on perilous journeys, leaving behind familiar surroundings in search of safety, economic stability, or a better future for their families. Their resilience and determination in the face of adversity inspire us all. On this day, we acknowledge the courage it takes to start anew, adapt to unfamiliar environments, and overcome the hurdles that migrants encounter on their paths to integration.&nbsp;

It is crucial to humanise the narrative surrounding migration, dispelling myths and stereotypes that perpetuate negative perceptions. International Migrants Day provides an opportunity to highlight the individual stories of migrants, showcasing their talents, skills, and contributions to the societies they join. By recognising the humanity of migrants, we can foster empathy and understanding, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate world.

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Protecting the Rights of Migrants</h2>

As we celebrate International Migrants Day, it is imperative to renew our commitment to protecting the rights of migrants. Governments, organisations, and individuals must work together to create policies and practices that ensure the fair and just treatment of migrants, regardless of their status. This includes access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, as well as safeguarding against discrimination and exploitation.

&nbsp; 
On this International Migrants Day, let us recommit ourselves to building societies that value and embrace diversity. By fostering an environment of inclusion and understanding, we contribute to a world where migrants are not only welcomed but celebrated for the unique perspectives and experiences they bring. Together, we can create a more interconnected and harmonious global community, recognising that our shared humanity transcends borders.

(With inputs from agencies)

As we observe International Migrants Day on 18 December 2023, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the journeys, challenges, and contributions of millions of individuals who have chosen to make a new home in foreign lands for protection, education, healthcare, or work for economic welfare.

As we observe International Migrants Day on 18 December 2023, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the journeys, challenges, and contributions of millions of individuals who have chosen to make a new home in foreign lands for protection, education, healthcare, or work for economic welfare. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of recognising and respecting the rights of migrants, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating the richness that diversity brings to societies worldwide. Who is an International Migrant? The definition of an international migrant, according to the United Nations, includes any individual who has relocated to a different country of residence, irrespective of their legal status, the nature of their movement, or the motives driving their migration. The Significance of International Migrants Day International Migrants Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2000 to recognise the rights of migrants and promote awareness about the positive contributions they make to both their host and home countries. This day also highlights the need for safe and orderly migration and encourages dialogue on the challenges faced by migrants. International Migrants Day Diversity In 2023, the global community stands at a crossroads, facing numerous economic, political, and environmental challenges. As these challenges persist, the number of people seeking refuge or better opportunities in foreign lands continues to grow. International Migrants Day provides an opportunity to emphasise the importance of embracing diversity and recognising the strength that comes from the exchange of cultures, ideas, and perspectives. As of July 1, 2020, the estimated global count of international migrants reached 281 million, making up approximately 3.5 per cent of the world's population. This percentage has experienced a gradual rise, growing from 2.3 per cent in 1980 to 2.8 per cent in 2000. Resilience in the Face of Adversity Migrants often embark on perilous journeys, leaving behind familiar surroundings in search of safety, economic stability, or a better future for their families. Their resilience and determination in the face of adversity inspire us all. On this day, we acknowledge the courage it takes to start anew, adapt to unfamiliar environments, and overcome the hurdles that migrants encounter on their paths to integration. It is crucial to humanise the narrative surrounding migration, dispelling myths and stereotypes that perpetuate negative perceptions. International Migrants Day provides an opportunity to highlight the individual stories of migrants, showcasing their talents, skills, and contributions to the societies they join. By recognising the humanity of migrants, we can foster empathy and understanding, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate world. Protecting the Rights of Migrants As we celebrate International Migrants Day, it is imperative to renew our commitment to protecting the rights of migrants. Governments, organisations, and individuals must work together to create policies and practices that ensure the fair and just treatment of migrants, regardless of their status. This includes access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, as well as safeguarding against discrimination and exploitation. On this International Migrants Day, let us recommit ourselves to building societies that value and embrace diversity. By fostering an environment of inclusion and understanding, we contribute to a world where migrants are not only welcomed but celebrated for the unique perspectives and experiences they bring. Together, we can create a more interconnected and harmonious global community, recognising that our shared humanity transcends borders. (With inputs from agencies)

International Migrants Day 2023: Celebrating the diversity and resilience of migrants

Spain's coast guard rescued nearly 40 African migrants from waters off the coast of Tenerife on Friday after their boat capsized during the dangerous crossing to the Canary Islands, which saw a tenfold surge in such traffic last year.

Two women and one man were confirmed dead on arrival at the port, an emergency services spokeswoman said, while two women were transferred to hospital with slight injuries.

Red Cross workers in masks and goggles carried several young children ashore and helped injured adults to a dockside medical tent at the resort town of Los Cristianos on the island's southern coast.

The rescue happened as the U.N. migration agency announced that more than 2,200 people died at sea trying to reach Europe last year, more than a third along the increasingly busy route to the Canaries.

Some 23,000 migrants made the crossing from Africa to the archipelago, located around 60 miles to the west of Morocco's Atlantic Coast.

A record 850 died on that route last year, the migration agency said, suggesting COVID-19 prompted many hard-hit workers in fishing or agriculture to migrate.

With existing arrival facilities packed to capacity, authorities have resorted to housing thousands in camps, drawing criticism from rights groups over inhumane conditions.&nbsp;

Spain's coast guard rescued nearly 40 African migrants from waters off the coast of Tenerife on Friday after their boat capsized during the dangerous crossing to the Canary Islands, which saw a tenfold surge in such traffic last year.

Spain's coast guard rescued nearly 40 African migrants from waters off the coast of Tenerife on Friday after their boat capsized during the dangerous crossing to the Canary Islands, which saw a tenfold surge in such traffic last year. Two women and one man were confirmed dead on arrival at the port, an emergency services spokeswoman said, while two women were transferred to hospital with slight injuries. Red Cross workers in masks and goggles carried several young children ashore and helped injured adults to a dockside medical tent at the resort town of Los Cristianos on the island's southern coast. The rescue happened as the U.N. migration agency announced that more than 2,200 people died at sea trying to reach Europe last year, more than a third along the increasingly busy route to the Canaries. Some 23,000 migrants made the crossing from Africa to the archipelago, located around 60 miles to the west of Morocco's Atlantic Coast. A record 850 died on that route last year, the migration agency said, suggesting COVID-19 prompted many hard-hit workers in fishing or agriculture to migrate. With existing arrival facilities packed to capacity, authorities have resorted to housing thousands in camps, drawing criticism from rights groups over inhumane conditions.

Three die, dozens rescued as migrant boat capsizes off Spain's Tenerife

Stop migrants crossing in Aegean Sea: Erdogan to Turkey coastguard

As Greece faced fresh violence on its borders on Saturday, Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan ordered the Turkish coastguard to prevent migrants crossing the Aegean sea. <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/stop-migrants-crossing-in-aegean-sea-erdogan-to-turkey-coastguard-284932">Read More</a>

US Congress report faults Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing for 737 Max crashes

In a 13-page report, a US congressional committee said Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) and Boeing missed "multiple red flags and clear data points”.&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-congress-report-faults-federal-aviation-administration-boeing-for-737-max-crashes-284939">Read More</a>

Melania Trump tweets about White House tennis pavilion as US battles coronavirus

US First lady Melania Trump shared with her social media followers the status on the construction of a new White House tennis pavilion. <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/melania-trump-tweets-about-white-house-tennis-pavilion-as-us-battles-coronavirus-284927">Read More</a>

Tourism industry across the world takes a hit as COVID-19 spreads more widely

The global tourism industry is the worst affected due to COVID-19 as the breakout of coronavirus has turned businesses upside down.&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/tourism-industry-across-the-world-takes-a-hit-as-covid-19-spreads-more-widely-284923">Read More</a>

Senior member of Iran's Revolutionary Guards killed in Syria: Report

A senior member of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, Farhad Dabirian, was "martyred" in Syria on Friday, Fars news agency reported, without giving details of how he died.&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/senior-member-of-irans-revolutionary-guards-killed-in-syria-report-284924">Read More</a>

Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte plans to declare a nationwide public health emergency following confirmation of the country's first community transmission of the disease, the presidential aide said on Saturday. <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/philippines-duterte-to-declare-public-health-emergency-to-combat-coronavirus-284922">Read More</a>

Former Barcelona forward Ronaldinho arrested in Paraguay

Former Brazil and Barcelona forward Ronaldinho Gaucho was arrested in Paraguay on Friday for attempting to enter the country with an adulterated passport, Paraguayan police said.&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/former-barcelona-forward-ronaldinho-arrested-in-paraguay-284891">Read More</a>

Trump replaces acting chief of staff Mulvaney with North Carolina lawmaker

President Donald Trump parted ways on Friday with acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney and replaced him with conservative lawmaker and close ally Mark Meadows, who was a strong Trump defender during the Democratic impeachment drive.&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/trump-replaces-acting-chief-of-staff-mulvaney-with-north-carolina-lawmaker-284889">Read More</a>

Saudi Arabia detains two senior royals, including king's brother: Report

Saudi Arabia has detained two senior members of the Saudi royal family&nbsp;Prince Ahmed bin Abdulaziz, the younger brother of King Salman, and Mohammed bin Nayef, the king's nephew, two sources with knowledge of the matter said.<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/saudi-arabia-detains-two-senior-royals-including-kings-brother-report-284871"> Read More</a>

Coronavirus may cause $61 million loss to Pakistan: ADB

Cash strapped Pakistan may face losses up to $ 61 million due to the deadly coronavirus outbreak, the ADB has said in its assessment report on the impact of the novel COVID-19 outbreak. <a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/coronavirus-may-cause-61-million-loss-to-pakistan-adb-284934">Read More</a>

Stop migrants crossing in Aegean Sea: Erdogan to Turkey coastguard As Greece faced fresh violence on its borders on Saturday, Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan ordered the Turkish coastguard to prevent migrants crossing the Aegean sea.

Stop migrants crossing in Aegean Sea: Erdogan to Turkey coastguard As Greece faced fresh violence on its borders on Saturday, Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan ordered the Turkish coastguard to prevent migrants crossing the Aegean sea. Read More US Congress report faults Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing for 737 Max crashes In a 13-page report, a US congressional committee said Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) and Boeing missed "multiple red flags and clear data points”. Read More Melania Trump tweets about White House tennis pavilion as US battles coronavirus US First lady Melania Trump shared with her social media followers the status on the construction of a new White House tennis pavilion. Read More Tourism industry across the world takes a hit as COVID-19 spreads more widely The global tourism industry is the worst affected due to COVID-19 as the breakout of coronavirus has turned businesses upside down. Read More Senior member of Iran's Revolutionary Guards killed in Syria: Report A senior member of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, Farhad Dabirian, was "martyred" in Syria on Friday, Fars news agency reported, without giving details of how he died. Read More Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte plans to declare a nationwide public health emergency following confirmation of the country's first community transmission of the disease, the presidential aide said on Saturday. Read More Former Barcelona forward Ronaldinho arrested in Paraguay Former Brazil and Barcelona forward Ronaldinho Gaucho was arrested in Paraguay on Friday for attempting to enter the country with an adulterated passport, Paraguayan police said. Read More Trump replaces acting chief of staff Mulvaney with North Carolina lawmaker President Donald Trump parted ways on Friday with acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney and replaced him with conservative lawmaker and close ally Mark Meadows, who was a strong Trump defender during the Democratic impeachment drive. Read More Saudi Arabia detains two senior royals, including king's brother: Report Saudi Arabia has detained two senior members of the Saudi royal family Prince Ahmed bin Abdulaziz, the younger brother of King Salman, and Mohammed bin Nayef, the king's nephew, two sources with knowledge of the matter said. Read More Coronavirus may cause $61 million loss to Pakistan: ADB Cash strapped Pakistan may face losses up to $ 61 million due to the deadly coronavirus outbreak, the ADB has said in its assessment report on the impact of the novel COVID-19 outbreak. Read More

Top 10 world news today: Erdogan on migrants, Iran army member killed in Syria & more!

Migrants, police clash at Turkey-Greece border despite Erdogan-Putin ceasefire deal

Police once against fired tear gas canisters at the migrants at the Kastanies/Pazarkule crossing which has witnessed fierce clashes between migrants and police both on the Greek and Turkish crossings.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrants-police-clash-at-turkey-greece-border-despite-erdogan-putin-ceasefire-deal-284780"> Read More</a>

Bethlehem under lockdown after virus cases confirmed

Israel has imposed a lockdown on the city of Bethlehem over coronavirus fears as Palestinian authorities announced a two-week ban on tourists and shuttered the Church of the Nativity.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bethlehem-under-lockdown-after-virus-cases-confirmed-284717"> Read More</a>

Suicide bombers target US embassy in Tunisia; one police officer killed

Suicide bombers target US embassy in Tunisia&nbsp;one police officer killed,Tunisia's interior ministry said two terrorists were killed while carrying out the attack with four policemen injured. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suicide-bombers-target-us-embassy-in-tunisia-one-police-officer-killed-284788">Read More</a>

Vatican reports its first coronavirus case

The Vatican on Friday reported its first coronavirus case, saying it had suspended outpatient services at its health clinic after a patient tested positive for COVID-19. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-reports-its-first-coronavirus-case-284754">Read More</a>

'It's all fake': Senior Chinese official heckled by Wuhan residents

Several clips are shared online since Thursday that showed occupants of an apartment block in Wuhan shouting "it's all fake" when Vice Premier Sun Chunlan went for inspection. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-all-fake-senior-chinese-official-heckled-by-wuhan-residents-284746">Read More</a>

Adviser to Iran's foreign minister dies of coronavirus

Adviser to Iran's foreign minister dies of coronavirus, an adviser to Iran's foreign minister who took part in the 1979 US embassy hostage crisis has died from coronavirus, the official IRNA news agency reported. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/adviser-to-irans-foreign-minister-dies-of-coronavirus-284740">Read More</a>

Secret documents reveal Iran hiding its nuclear activities, building a tunnel for a nuclear detonation

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has sounded an alarm after an archive of Iran's secret documents revealed the extent of the country's nuclear programme. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/secret-documents-reveal-iran-hiding-its-nuclear-activities-building-a-tunnel-for-a-nuclear-detonation-284731">Read More</a>

Amid coronavirus outbreak, China bans consumption of wild animals

In the wake of coronavirus epidemic, China banned the consumption of wild animals on Thursday under preventive measures to contain the deadly virus. It is believed that the virus was spawned in a market in Wuhan that sold wild animals including bats, snakes and pangolins as food. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-coronavirus-outbreak-china-bans-consumption-of-wild-animals-284710">Read More</a>

Afghanistan: At least 27 killed after gunmen target political rally in Kabul

At least 27 people have been killed after an assault on a political rally in Kabul. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said women and children were among the dead with at least 29 people injured.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-at-least-27-killed-after-gunmen-target-political-rally-in-kabul-284687">Read More</a>

Bhutan confirms first coronavirus case, US tourist tested positive: Government

The isolated Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan has reported its first case of the coronavirus after a US tourist tested positive, the prime minister said Friday, the tiny landlocked country, famous for measuring Gross National Happiness has emerged as a popular tourist destination in recent years. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutan-confirms-first-coronavirus-case-us-tourist-tested-positive-government-284643">Read More</a> 
&nbsp;

Migrants, police clash at Turkey-Greece border despite Erdogan-Putin ceasefire deal Police once against fired tear gas canisters at the migrants at the Kastanies/Pazarkule crossing which has witnessed fierce clashes between migrants and police both on the Greek and Turkish crossings.

Migrants, police clash at Turkey-Greece border despite Erdogan-Putin ceasefire deal Police once against fired tear gas canisters at the migrants at the Kastanies/Pazarkule crossing which has witnessed fierce clashes between migrants and police both on the Greek and Turkish crossings. Read More Bethlehem under lockdown after virus cases confirmed Israel has imposed a lockdown on the city of Bethlehem over coronavirus fears as Palestinian authorities announced a two-week ban on tourists and shuttered the Church of the Nativity. Read More Suicide bombers target US embassy in Tunisia; one police officer killed Suicide bombers target US embassy in Tunisia one police officer killed,Tunisia's interior ministry said two terrorists were killed while carrying out the attack with four policemen injured. Read More Vatican reports its first coronavirus case The Vatican on Friday reported its first coronavirus case, saying it had suspended outpatient services at its health clinic after a patient tested positive for COVID-19. Read More 'It's all fake': Senior Chinese official heckled by Wuhan residents Several clips are shared online since Thursday that showed occupants of an apartment block in Wuhan shouting "it's all fake" when Vice Premier Sun Chunlan went for inspection. Read More Adviser to Iran's foreign minister dies of coronavirus Adviser to Iran's foreign minister dies of coronavirus, an adviser to Iran's foreign minister who took part in the 1979 US embassy hostage crisis has died from coronavirus, the official IRNA news agency reported. Read More Secret documents reveal Iran hiding its nuclear activities, building a tunnel for a nuclear detonation The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has sounded an alarm after an archive of Iran's secret documents revealed the extent of the country's nuclear programme. Read More Amid coronavirus outbreak, China bans consumption of wild animals In the wake of coronavirus epidemic, China banned the consumption of wild animals on Thursday under preventive measures to contain the deadly virus. It is believed that the virus was spawned in a market in Wuhan that sold wild animals including bats, snakes and pangolins as food. Read More Afghanistan: At least 27 killed after gunmen target political rally in Kabul At least 27 people have been killed after an assault on a political rally in Kabul. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said women and children were among the dead with at least 29 people injured. Read More Bhutan confirms first coronavirus case, US tourist tested positive: Government The isolated Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan has reported its first case of the coronavirus after a US tourist tested positive, the prime minister said Friday, the tiny landlocked country, famous for measuring Gross National Happiness has emerged as a popular tourist destination in recent years. Read More

Top 10 world news today: Vatican's first coronavirus case, US Embassy attacked and more

"They'll have to find a very large courtroom, for it will be a trial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-new-migrant-standoff-italys-salvini-blocks-two-ngo-boats-242803">against the Italian people</a>," Salvini, head of the far-right League party, said on Facebook Sunday.

An Italian Senate committee was set to vote Monday on whether former interior minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/interior-minister-matteo-salvini-pulls-support-for-italian-coalition-calls-for-snap-polls-241630">Matteo Salvini</a> should stand trial for allegedly illegally detaining migrants at sea last year.

A tribunal has recommended Salvini stand trial for blocking migrants on a coastguard boat last July. Under Italian law, ministers cannot be tried for actions taken in office unless a parliamentary committee gives the go-ahead.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italy-rocked-by-anti-salvini-protest-268379">Italy rocked by anti-Salvini protest&nbsp;</a>

Should the committee vote in favour, the trial would proceed and Salvini faces up to 15 years in jail if found guilty. Should it rule against, parliament will be called to give its opinion in a vote likely to be held in February, Italian media said. Salvini had refused to allow 131 rescued migrants off the Gregoretti&nbsp;coastguard boat until a deal was reached with other European states to host them.

<img alt="Salvini" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dba476b-c4ad-4104-ac4e-efe65a9ee475" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-01-20T191146.491.jpg" /> 
[ Matteo Salvini (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

A Catania court accused him of an "abuse of power" in blocking those saved on board from July 27 to July 31. Salvini insists that was not an individual decision, but one backed by the government and Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte.

Prosecutors in Sicily opened a probe into conditions on board the boat, where migrants shared one toilet between them. This is the second time the League leader has risked trial over detaining migrants.

Last year a court ruled that he should be tried for preventing 177 migrants from disembarking the Diciotti coastguard ship, but Italy's senate voted to defend his parliamentary immunity.

Salvini called on League senators Sunday to vote in favour of the trial, "so we can clear this up once and for all".

His opponents have accused him of using the incident to win support ahead of a key regional election by portraying himself as a man hounded by the government and law courts merely for doing his job.

The then-interior minister's "closed ports" policy, aimed at stopping migrant arrivals from war-torn Libya, saw his popularity numbers shoot up.&nbsp;Italy has long complained it has been abandoned by Europe to deal with migrant arrivals alone.

"If I have to go to jail for defending an idea, I'll go with my head held high," Salvini told a rally in the region of Emilia Romagna. The region, a traditional stronghold of the left, goes to the ballots on Sunday, pitting the ruling coalition parties -- the centre-left Democratic Party (PD) and anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S) -- against the League.

Salvini's anti-immigrant party has a strong lead in national polls and is betting on a victory in Emilia Romagna being damaging enough to collapse the government and spark elections. 
&nbsp;

"They'll have to find a very large courtroom, for it will be a trial against the Italian people," Salvini, head of the far-right League party, said on Facebook Sunday.

"They'll have to find a very large courtroom, for it will be a trial against the Italian people," Salvini, head of the far-right League party, said on Facebook Sunday. An Italian Senate committee was set to vote Monday on whether former interior minister Matteo Salvini should stand trial for allegedly illegally detaining migrants at sea last year. A tribunal has recommended Salvini stand trial for blocking migrants on a coastguard boat last July. Under Italian law, ministers cannot be tried for actions taken in office unless a parliamentary committee gives the go-ahead. Also Read: Italy rocked by anti-Salvini protest Should the committee vote in favour, the trial would proceed and Salvini faces up to 15 years in jail if found guilty. Should it rule against, parliament will be called to give its opinion in a vote likely to be held in February, Italian media said. Salvini had refused to allow 131 rescued migrants off the Gregoretti coastguard boat until a deal was reached with other European states to host them. [ Matteo Salvini (Courtesy: Reuters) ] A Catania court accused him of an "abuse of power" in blocking those saved on board from July 27 to July 31. Salvini insists that was not an individual decision, but one backed by the government and Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte. Prosecutors in Sicily opened a probe into conditions on board the boat, where migrants shared one toilet between them. This is the second time the League leader has risked trial over detaining migrants. Last year a court ruled that he should be tried for preventing 177 migrants from disembarking the Diciotti coastguard ship, but Italy's senate voted to defend his parliamentary immunity. Salvini called on League senators Sunday to vote in favour of the trial, "so we can clear this up once and for all". His opponents have accused him of using the incident to win support ahead of a key regional election by portraying himself as a man hounded by the government and law courts merely for doing his job. The then-interior minister's "closed ports" policy, aimed at stopping migrant arrivals from war-torn Libya, saw his popularity numbers shoot up. Italy has long complained it has been abandoned by Europe to deal with migrant arrivals alone. "If I have to go to jail for defending an idea, I'll go with my head held high," Salvini told a rally in the region of Emilia Romagna. The region, a traditional stronghold of the left, goes to the ballots on Sunday, pitting the ruling coalition parties -- the centre-left Democratic Party (PD) and anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S) -- against the League. Salvini's anti-immigrant party has a strong lead in national polls and is betting on a victory in Emilia Romagna being damaging enough to collapse the government and spark elections.

Italy committee to vote on Salvini migrant trial

Migrants form Human Chains to cross river at Guatemala and Mexico border

Congress President Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said attacks on the migrant workforce in Gujarat are not good for business and the economy and that the Government must act decisively to restore peace and ensure the safety of every Indian.

In a Facebook post, he said "poor'" economic policies, demonetisation and a "poorly-implemented" GST has led to the closure of factories and rise in unemployment that is being manifested in violent attacks on migrants across Gujarat.

He said there is growing frustration and anger with the government's "inability" to create jobs.

Across Gujarat, poor economic policies, demonetisation and poorly executed GST have devastated industry resulting in shutting down of factories and industrial units, leading to massive unemployment.&nbsp;

Amongst the youth, there is growing frustration and anger with the Government's inability to create jobs. This anger and frustration is being manifested in violent attacks on migrants, across the state of Gujarat, he said in his post.

The Congress chief said the migrant workforce is "critical to our economic growth" and attacks on them create an environment of fear and insecurity that isn't good for business and economy".&nbsp;

He also said, that the Government must act decisively, and do all it can to restore peace and to ensure the safety of every Indian.&nbsp;

Since the alleged rape of a 14-month-old girl in Sabarkantha district on September 28, six districts, most of them in north Gujarat, has witnessed sporadic incidents of violence against Hindi-speaking people, police said.

Police have arrested Ravindra Sahu, a labourer hailing from Bihar and working in a local ceramic factory, for the crime.&nbsp;

Congress President Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said attacks on the migrant workforce in Gujarat are not good for business and the economy and that the Government must act decisively to restore peace and ensure the safety of every Indian.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said attacks on the migrant workforce in Gujarat are not good for business and the economy and that the Government must act decisively to restore peace and ensure the safety of every Indian. In a Facebook post, he said "poor'" economic policies, demonetisation and a "poorly-implemented" GST has led to the closure of factories and rise in unemployment that is being manifested in violent attacks on migrants across Gujarat. He said there is growing frustration and anger with the government's "inability" to create jobs. Across Gujarat, poor economic policies, demonetisation and poorly executed GST have devastated industry resulting in shutting down of factories and industrial units, leading to massive unemployment. Amongst the youth, there is growing frustration and anger with the Government's inability to create jobs. This anger and frustration is being manifested in violent attacks on migrants, across the state of Gujarat, he said in his post. The Congress chief said the migrant workforce is "critical to our economic growth" and attacks on them create an environment of fear and insecurity that isn't good for business and economy". He also said, that the Government must act decisively, and do all it can to restore peace and to ensure the safety of every Indian. Since the alleged rape of a 14-month-old girl in Sabarkantha district on September 28, six districts, most of them in north Gujarat, has witnessed sporadic incidents of violence against Hindi-speaking people, police said. Police have arrested Ravindra Sahu, a labourer hailing from Bihar and working in a local ceramic factory, for the crime.

Gujarat migrant attacks: Rahul Gandhi says govt must act decisively to restore peace

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