A review of the living conditions in administrative detention centres for migrants in Italy from a public health perspective

In the last decade Italy has experienced an increasing migratory influx, even after adopting restrictive and detention-oriented procedures. Detention facilities for migrants are required to ensure food provision, accommodation, hygiene, health protection, and general assistance to the person. However, in these facilities the conditions are often critical. This study aims to provide a public-health-focused overview of the conditions in detention centres for migrants in Italy. A search of peer-reviewed (on PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science) and grey literature was conducted to examine the public health standards currently applied in Italian detention facilities for migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees. The search included articles published between 2009 and 2021 in English and Italian, which were qualitatively analysed. The topics identified were grouped into five categories: healthcare provision, living conditions, protection of vulnerable people, access to legal assistance, and the impact of COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 11 peer-reviewed studies and 24 grey literature documents were included. Guidelines for infectious disease screening and vaccination were found to be partially implemented, while chronic and mental health conditions were inadequately addressed. The facilities were described as in poor conditions, with insufficient and bad-quality meals, and lacking of educational activities. The COVID-19 pandemic further intensified pre-existing issues within these centres. Living conditions in migrants’ detention centres in Italy are portrayed as poor, violations of the law are acknowledged and, while not widespread, clearly documented. The most critical issues are the insufficient presence of cultural mediation and the inadequate protection of mental health.