Moussa’s story reflects the common reality for many migrants in Italy, caught in a web of laws that make integration and achieving a dignified life challenging.
The death of young Moussa Diarra should never have happened. Similarly, a nation that considers itself “civilised” and “democratic” should never have abandoned a fragile, emotionally troubled young man scarred deeply by his life experiences. Moussa’s death near Verona’s train station should be a turning point, a catalyst for a deep reflection on the reality faced by many migrants in Italy. And It should highlight the structural and institutional gaps that often place these individuals in vulnerable situations.
Moussa’s Journey: A Fate Sealed by Precariousness
Moussa was born in Sandiambougou, in southeastern Mali, a country plagued by decades of internal conflict exacerbated by the presence of jihadist groups who have long contested the territory with the Malian authorities. To escape the violence, Moussa fled to Libya, and was arrested for illegally entering the country. In the detention facilities, run by militias under the banner of the Libyan Coast Guard—also funded by Italy—Moussa, like thousands of other migrants, was held for months in inhumane conditions, where torture and abuse served as tools of subjugation and “ransom.” In 2016, Moussa managed to pay for his journey to Europe, arriving in Lampedusa and later making his way to Verona. The journey seemed complete, but the deep scars of his imprisonment stay with him.
Once in Italy, he continued to live in extreme poverty. Despite all his efforts to regularise his status and find the stability he sought, Moussa faced an overcrowded, inefficient resettlement system that made accessing the necessary documentation and permits difficult. As for many migrants in Italy, Moussa’s path was filled with obstacles: postponed appointments and temporary documents, bureaucratic barriers that prevented him from accessing basic rights such as employment, housing, and healthcare. This situation worsened the wounds that had never healed.
A System That Constrains Migrants’ Lives
Moussa’s story reflects the common reality for many migrants in Italy, caught in a web of laws that make integration and achieving a dignified life challenging. Precarity forced Moussa into a life marked by constant hardship and discrimination. From strictly security regulations, to agreements with Libya to fund detention centers for migrants, the Italian system seems more focused on repression than on welcoming those fleeing from war and persecution. Indifference appears to outweigh the protection of the most vulnerable.
Political Rhetoric and the Response of Civil Society
Following Moussa’s death, current Italian MP Matteo Salvini said “with all due respect. We won’t miss him.” This statement triggered further shock among civil society, local politicians, and even religious representative, who argue that public discourse and some political figures have become increasingly xenophobic and oriented toward incitement to hatred.
The Church also responded to Moussa’s killing. As a gesture of solidarity, the Diocese of Verona relocated the “Youth Prayer”—originally planned in the Cathedral—to Porta Nuova train station, transforming the event into a moment of collective reflection.
A report from the Council of Europe highlights that hate speech from public figures, along with racial profiling, is increasingly widespread in Italy, accompanied by rising incidents of racism.
MAEC’s Appeal
Moussa’s death sparked the outrage of over 300 people who gathered at Verona station to demand “truth and justice.” Local associations, activists, and friends remembered Moussa as a symbol of a system that makes any attempt at autonomy difficult and the path toward integration nearly impossible for migrants. Associations, including MAEC, continue to emphasize how the lives of many migrants are inevitably marked by structural racism and the lack of basic psychological support and assistance. This incident should serve as a collective wake-up call, a cry against a resettlement system that is increasingly unsupportive of those most in need. A society that considers itself civilized cannot allow a young life to be brushed aside.
“We must work deeply within Italian society to dismantle the misunderstandings and stereotypes against migrants. At the same time, we must establish channels of mutual understanding,” stated Regina Catrambone, director and founder of the Mediterranean Aid Education Center (MAEC), expressing her concerns on the matter. “Education for respect and mutual knowledge is one of the most powerful forces to foster integration.” She added, “With MAEC, we demand that the lives and dignity of migrants be recognised and respected regardless of where they come from. This is a fundamental question of dignity and civility.”
