Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament regret the situation of the 42 migrants who were stranded in the Mediterranean in the Sea-Watch boat. The leader of the S&D Group will push for a strong EU migration policy based on principles of the respect of human dignity and solidarity expressed in the Treaties. “The duty to rescue persons in distress at sea is not only a fundamental rule of international law but a moral duty. “Populists will continue to profit from this drama as long as the European Union is not capable of establishing a proper asylum and migration policy, with the necessary means and solidarity mechanisms. We firmly urge the Italian authorities to let the 42 migrants disembark the Sea Watch boat and ensure them all the necessary medical care.