Refugee/Migrant Crisis in Italy

The contemporary refugee and migrant crisis continues to impact Mediterranean border countries, especially Italy, with no clear political or humanitarian solution in site. Nearly 4000 refugees arrive on the shores of Lampedusa or are rescued at sea by naval and humanitarian organizations weekly.  For three weeks this summer, students from King’s had the opportunity to study in Arezzo, Italy and to earn credits in Social Justice and Peace Studies and Italian Language and Culture while at the Rondine Centre for Peace. Students completed coursework in Italian conversation and a class in the Ethics of Engaging with Others. In addition to these two courses, students had the opportunity to visit a number of key humanitarian organizations working on the frontlines of the current crisis.  

Highlights included a visit to the newly opened Office of Refugees and Migrants at the Vatican, the Jesuit Relief Services’ welcome centre in Rome, Centro Asistali, the International Committee of the Red Cross and Caritas.  

Interested in participating in next year’s course? Contact Dr. Allyson Larkin (alarkin2@uwo.ca) for more information. 

To see more about this experiential learning trip, please go here.

You can also see more about their travels on their Facebook and Twitter pages.