Why are migrants taking dangerous journeys across the Mediterranean?
We are quite disturbed by the tragic deaths of at least 23 Bangladeshi migrants whose bodies washed ashore in northern Libya. Reports indicate that a boat carrying 56 migrants bound for Italy departed from Libya's coast on January 25. On January 28, local authorities recovered seven bodies, and over the next three days, the toll rose to 23. Two critically injured survivors were also rescued and hospitalised. However, some victims remain unidentified, while officials fear the death toll may rise as there is no information about the remaining passengers.
According to the families of some identified victims, the boat passengers were being smuggled from Libya to Europe via the Mediterranean Sea. All came from impoverished backgrounds, each paying between Tk 14 lakh and Tk 16 lakh for the perilous journey across the Central Mediterranean route, with a Bangladeshi broker from Cumilla allegedly organising the operation. One of the deceased, Bashar Akand, left behind a one-year-old child; he had been working in Libya for a year before attempting the journey to Europe. Another victim, 19-year-old Titu, took this life-threatening risk after being defrauded by an agent when applying for a work permit, which brings us to the crux of the matter.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Since 2017, Bangladeshi migrants have consistently ranked among the top nationalities crossing the Mediterranean Sea to Europe—a route often taken by those fleeing conflict or war and considered one of the most dangerous in the world. This underscores the grim reality driving such migrations.
While these migrants attempted to enter Europe illegally, each had their own reasons for taking such a desperate gamble. Some had borrowed large sums in search of better opportunities. Others had tried to migrate legally but were defrauded by unscrupulous agents, making them even more desperate. Ultimately, their desperation to leave Bangladesh highlights the severe lack of stable jobs and economic prospects in their home country.
Since 2017, Bangladeshi migrants have consistently ranked among the top nationalities crossing the Mediterranean Sea to Europe—a route often taken by those fleeing conflict or war and considered one of the most dangerous in the world. This underscores the grim reality driving such migrations. Another major reason so many Bangladeshis fall victim to human traffickers is the failure of so-called "legal" recruitment channels, which often deceive and exploit prospective migrants. With no other options, these individuals are forced to pursue risky, illegal routes in the hope of a better future.
The only way to prevent such tragedies is by creating better opportunities within the country. The government must address this issue as the employment situation appears to be worsening. At the same time, legal migration must be made more affordable, accessible, and efficient. Finally, the authorities must crack down on human smugglers and their agents who exploit innocent people trying to secure a better future for their families.
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