At least 50 migrants are feared dead after a shipwreck off the Moroccan coast, highlighting the tragic human cost of the ongoing migration crisis in the Mediterranean. The boat, carrying dozens of migrants, is believed to have sunk after departing from Mauritania, en route to the Canary Islands.
The Spanish NGO Caminando Fronteras reported the tragedy, stating that the majority of the victims were Pakistani nationals. While 36 survivors were rescued by Moroccan authorities after 13 days adrift at sea, the fate of the remaining passengers remains uncertain.
The survivors described harrowing conditions on board, including extreme heat, hunger, and dehydration. The psychological trauma of the ordeal, compounded by the loss of their fellow passengers, has left many survivors deeply distressed.
This tragic incident comes amidst a record influx of migrants to the Canary Islands. In 2024, a staggering 46,843 migrants reached the archipelago, a 17% increase compared to the previous year. Overall, Spain recorded a significant increase in migrant arrivals in 2024, with 63,970 arrivals compared to 56,852 in 2023.
The reasons driving this surge in migration are complex and multifaceted, including poverty, conflict, and climate change. The rise of migrant smuggling networks in the region further exacerbates the situation, exploiting vulnerable individuals and increasing the risks associated with these perilous journeys.
Despite increased efforts by Spanish and Moroccan authorities to combat irregular migration, the Canary Islands route remains a significant challenge. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to address the root causes of migration and to ensure safe and legal pathways for those seeking a better future.
MK/ac/fss/abj/APA