On the 11th anniversary of the tragic migrant shipwreck near Lampedusa, “Save the Children” sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by migrants crossing the Mediterranean. Since that fateful day in 2013, more than 30,000 lives have been lost at sea, underscoring the urgent need for safe and regulated pathways for those seeking refuge in Europe.
As we remember the 368 lives lost in the shipwreck, including children, boys, girls, and pregnant women, we are reminded that little has changed in the past eleven years. “Save the Children” emphasizes the lack of a comprehensive search and rescue system and the limited safe routes for migrants, leading to eight deaths per day on average in the Mediterranean.
The current security-based approach and strict border control policies are exacerbating the crisis, with vulnerable populations, especially children and adolescents, facing increased risks. Antonella Inverno, from “Save the Children”, highlights the need for a shift towards policies that prioritize human rights and protect the most vulnerable migrants.
With nearly 48,646 people arriving in Italy by sea in 2024, including 5,542 unaccompanied foreign minors, the need for a more coordinated response from European governments is crucial. “Save the Children” has set up Safe Spaces in Lampedusa to provide protection and support to minors, young women, and mothers, in collaboration with UNICEF, UNHCR, and DiRe.
These Safe Spaces offer a secure environment for women and children, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance after enduring traumatic journeys. “Save the Children” is actively participating in forums and events to raise awareness and foster discussions on migration, human rights, and border policies.
As we commemorate the anniversary of the 2013 shipwreck, let us not forget the lives lost and the ongoing struggles faced by migrants seeking safety and opportunities in Europe. It is time for a more humane and compassionate approach to address this pressing humanitarian crisis.
By Bezawit Bogale
