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Monday, October 7, 2024

Djibouti boat capsize claims at least 21 lives

Tragedy struck once again as a migrant boat capsized, leaving at least sixteen dead and twenty eight missing.

The perilous routes migrants take in search of safety and opportunity continue to claim lives, with recent tragedies off the coasts of Djibouti, Tunisia, and the English Channel highlighting the urgent need for international action and compassion. In Djibouti alone, at least 21 migrants tragically lost their lives after a boat capsized, emphasizing the deadly risks faced by those who embark on desperate voyages in pursuit of refuge and a better life.

Perilous Eastern Migration Route

In the treacherous waters off the coast of Djibouti, tragedy struck once again as a migrant boat capsized, leaving at least 16 dead and 28 missing. This marks the second fatal maritime accident in as many weeks along what is known as the Eastern Migration Route, a perilous journey from Africa to the Middle East. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) reported the devastating incident, emphasizing the urgent need for search and rescue efforts to save those still missing at sea.

Read More: Boat carrying dozens of Rohingya Muslims capsizes off Indonesian coast

Heartbreak in Tunisia

Meanwhile, off the coast of the Tunisian port city of Sfax, the discovery of 22 bodies adds to the grim toll of migrant lives lost at sea. The victims, presumed to be sub-Saharan migrants, serve as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who embark on desperate voyages in search of better opportunities. Tunisia, along with neighboring Libya, has become a key departure point for thousands of migrants, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the root causes of migration and ensure the safety of those seeking refuge.

Tragic Losses in the English Channel

The English Channel, a narrow stretch of water separating France and Britain, has also witnessed heartbreaking loss of life as migrants attempt to make the perilous crossing in search of asylum and a better future. Five migrants, including a seven-year-old girl, perished in a recent attempt to reach British shores. This latest tragedy highlights the deadly risks faced by migrants and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of displacement and provide safe and legal pathways for those seeking refuge.

Read More: 19 women killed as wedding boat capsizes in South Punjab

As the death toll rises and tragedies continue to unfold at sea, it is imperative that the international community come together to address the root causes of migration, tackle human trafficking and smuggling networks, and strengthen efforts to provide safe and legal pathways for refugees and asylum seekers. Moreover, there is a pressing need for greater compassion and solidarity towards those who risk their lives in search of safety and opportunity.