Pope Francis referred to the Mediterranean Sea, the route most used by irregular migrants to cross into Europe with the hope of finding a better life, as the "largest cemetery in Europe." According to United Nations figures, more than 670 migrants have already died in the central Mediterranean this year. Several private sea rescue organizations operate in the central Mediterranean, mostly off the coast of Libya, from where migrants in small boats repeatedly venture forth. Greece has also pushed thousands of migrants and refugees from its shores and has frequently been criticized by Turkey over pushbacks. Frontex head Fabrice Leggeri has been under pressure for months over pushback allegations as Frontex takes on a greater frontline role in patrolling EU borders.

Source: The North Africa Journal June 14, 2021 07:18 UTC