The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed deep shock and sadness at yesterday morning's boat tragedy off Lampedusa.

The tragedy claimed the lives of hundreds of mainly Eritrean refugees and migrants.

The Commissioner welcomed efforts by the Italian authorities to address the issue in line with international human rights norms and respect for the dignity of every human being – and in particular the day of mourning declared by the Government and the minute of silence that will be held in all Italian schools today.

"This is significant. It marks a very big and welcome change of attitude on the part of the Italian authorities. We would like to, in particular, praise the leading role played by the Minister of Integration, Cécile Kyenge, and President of the Lower House of Parliament, Laura Boldrini, in helping steer this change in official attitude despite strong and sometimes vitriolic opposition in other quarters."

The office also called on the Italian authorities and the international community, especially the European Union, to strengthen their efforts to prevent a repeat of this situation. States should also ensure that they are honouring their commitments under international refugee law.

"We are concerned about the increasing rates of smuggling and trafficking of migrants and refugees in the Mediterranean and elsewhere, for example in the Gulf of Aden.

"This indicates the desperation of the people living in areas of Eritrea and also other countries, including Somalia, stricken by insecurity and conflict as well as the lack of enjoyment of basic economic, social and cultural rights.

"It is critical that the international community engages further in improving the human rights situation on the ground, to address the root causes so that there is sufficient improvement that people will not feel the need to put their lives at risk by undertaking such dangerous journeys."

Authorities at national and sub-national levels should renew their efforts to put an end to smuggling and trafficking in persons in Eritrea and Somalia, with the collaboration of the international community and the United Nations, the office said.