The recent data released by the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, and the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM) sheds light on the often overlooked dangers faced by vulnerable individuals on the move along perilous land routes. The report, titled “On this journey, no-one cares if you live or die,” covers a three-year period of data collection and emphasizes the increasing number of people attempting these risky land crossings.
Vincent Cochetel, the UNHCR Special Envoy for the Western and Central Mediterranean, expressed deep concern over the human rights violations and abuse experienced by migrants and refugees along these routes. He emphasized the need to address the level of violence faced by these individuals, regardless of their status. It is noted that more people are estimated to traverse the Sahara desert than the Mediterranean Sea, with the number of deaths in the desert presumed to be double those at sea.
The central Mediterranean migration route continues to be one of the deadliest in the world, according to Laurence Hart, the IOM Director of the Coordination Office for the Mediterranean. Despite the risks involved, a significant number of individuals still embark on these dangerous journeys due to various push factors. These factors include the deteriorating situations in countries of origin and host countries, new conflicts in the Sahel and Sudan, the impact of climate change and disasters, as well as racism and xenophobia towards refugees and migrants.
The report highlights the gaps in protection and assistance along the Central Mediterranean route, which compel refugees and migrants to continue their journeys under perilous conditions. Bram Frouws, the Director of the Mixed Migration Centre (MMC), revealed shocking statistics of the increasing number of deaths on the Atlantic route to the Canary Islands, indicating a 700% rise compared to the previous year. Additionally, countless others are believed to have perished on the land routes leading up to the Mediterranean coast, potentially surpassing the number of deaths at sea.
Despite international commitments to save lives and address vulnerabilities, the report’s authors criticized the insufficient efforts to hold accountable those responsible for the abuse and dangers faced by migrants and refugees. Criminal groups and traffickers are often implicated in these atrocities, but state officials, including police, military, and border guards, also play a role in perpetuating these abuses. The need for accountability is emphasized, regardless of the perpetrators’ identities.
The report underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address the challenges faced by migrants and refugees on dangerous land routes. Efforts must be intensified to ensure their safety and well-being, as well as to hold accountable those who perpetrate violence and abuse against them. The international community must work together to create a more secure and humane environment for individuals on the move, striving to uphold their rights and dignity throughout their journeys.
