The tragic sinking of a boat carrying illegal immigrants from Gambia, which capsized near the coast of Mauritania. This tragedy cost the lives of many young West Africans.
The sinking, which occurred on July 1, 2024, is among the countless maritime disasters caused by illegal emigration in the region, with at least 89 confirmed dead and many missing. The Mauritanian coastguard carried out a rescue operation, rescuing 103 people, but the toll remains high. Survivors describe inhumane travel conditions, marked by hunger, thirst, and exposure to the elements, highlighting the precariousness of the boats used for these perilous crossings.
The root causes of illegal immigration, such as poverty, unemployment and lack of prospects in the countries of origin.
The reasons that push young people to undertake such life-threatening journeys are multiple, complex and interconnected.
Precarious economic conditions are a major factor. Youth unemployment is an alarming reality that drives people to seek opportunities elsewhere. This quest is often fueled by the desire for a better life and social pressure to succeed, which can lead to desperate decisions. In addition, international fisheries agreements and overfishing have a direct impact on coastal communities, reducing the livelihoods of fishers and exacerbating poverty.
Armed conflicts, political persecution, human rights violations and social crises are factors that push people to flee their countries to seek refuge elsewhere. These dangerous situations often force individuals to risk their lives in the hope of reaching a safe place where they can live in peace and security.
Restrictions on visa policies and limited access to legal migration channels also contribute to irregular immigration.
It is essential to recognize that illegal immigration is not an easy or desired choice, but rather the result of desperate circumstances and the lack of viable alternatives for communities.
Written by-Daouda Ndiaye ,Co- Chair of WFFP