Routes Towards Western and Central Mediterranean Sea: Working on Alternatives to Dangerous Journeys for Refugees, UNHCR’s Updated Risk Mitigation Strategy and Appeal, January 2021 - World
IntroductionThe dangerous irregular mixed movements of refugees and migrants across the Sahara Desert towards and through North African countries as well as via the sea routes to Italy, Malta, and Spain continue to take a devastating toll on human life. In 2020, some 1,5501 refugees and migrants were reported dead or gone missing in irregular movements at sea from West and North Africa to Italy, Malta and Spain. In addition, many others died along land routes through the desert, in detention centres, or in the captivity of smugglers or traffickers. At least a further 85 deaths have been recorded along land routes in 2020,* including 30 people killed by traffickers in Mizdah, Libya, in May. Criminal gangs, often operating with the protection of armed groups, are also responsible for some of these abuses.
Source: The North Africa Journal April 15, 2021 13:11 UTC
