The recent tragic boat accidents off the coast of Djibouti have once again highlighted the dangers faced by refugees and migrants trying to cross the Red Sea in search of a better life. At least 45 people have died, with dozens still missing, after two vessels carrying 310 people from Africa sank near Djibouti. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has been supporting state emergency services in search and rescue operations, with 32 survivors found so far.
The Djibouti coastguard and other rescue teams have been working tirelessly to find the missing persons and ensure the safety of the survivors. Unfortunately, incidents like this are not uncommon in the region. In April, 38 people died when their boat sank off the coast of Djibouti, and in June, 49 people perished when their boat sank after setting off from Somalia. The Eastern Route, as it is known, is one of the busiest and most dangerous migration routes in the world, with tens of thousands of people risking their lives each year to reach Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states.
Human smugglers pack refugees and migrants onto overcrowded vessels as they make the perilous journey from the Horn of Africa to Yemen and then on to the Gulf states. In addition to the risk of drowning, those making the crossing face health risks, violence, and exploitation by traffickers. Many are fleeing conflict, political violence, and climate change in their home countries. Despite these dangers, nearly 400,000 people attempted the Eastern Route crossing in 2023, with almost 700 dying or going missing that year alone.
The IOM has been closely monitoring the situation and providing support to those affected by the recent boat accidents. The organisation has been working with state emergency services to coordinate search and rescue efforts and provide assistance to survivors. The Red Sea crossing is not only a dangerous journey but also exposes refugees and migrants to further risks and exploitation in the Gulf states, where they often arrive in search of work.
It is crucial that efforts are made to address the root causes of migration and provide safer alternatives for those seeking a better life. The international community must work together to combat human trafficking and provide support to vulnerable populations. The recent tragedies off the coast of Djibouti serve as a stark reminder of the risks faced by refugees and migrants on their journey to a better future.
