Paper short abstract:

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Paper long abstract:

Migration flows seem to assume different shapes and meanings. It is not possible to apply any formal definitions to separate discrete migrant groups. Normally we use related labels, designed for diplomatic or political scopes, especially in Italy.

Irregular mixed migration, because of the dangerous conditions undergone by migrants in transit, at sea or in border areas, is the new challenge for the Italian authorities for humanitarian, diplomatic, political and human rights reasons. Sicily is naturally the first European door and bridge between Lybia and Italy. With this empirical work I'd like to present a better profile of irregular migrants, with their personal experiences and the reponses by Italians to their arrival, which appears to be a mix of formal legal severity with natural acceptance and the vicious circle of the media.