2023-06-14 17:25:55
The tragic sinking of a boat with migrants off the coast of Greece has left a devastating balance of 78 people dead, as confirmed by the Greek authorities. The event has shocked the international community and has once again highlighted the dangerous journey that thousands of desperate people undertake in search of a better future.
The incident occurred near the city of Pylos, in the Peloponnese region, about 87 kilometers from the Greek coast. The boat, which is believed to have left the coast of Libya, was carrying more than 500 people inside.r. So far, more than a hundred individuals have been rescued, but search and rescue operations continue in the area due to the presence of numerous missing persons. The authorities fear that the number of fatalities will increase in the coming hours.
Official sources have revealed that the ship was sighted by a plane from the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex), as well as by two ships that passed through the area. However, despite identification of the vessel and attempts to assist, the crew did not request assistance and refused supplies and assistance provided by a Greek Coast Guard vessel.
A “human tragedy”
The Coast Guard has expressed its concern about the situation and has indicated that the occupants of the boat expressed their desire to continue their journey to Italy.. The Greek authorities remained close to the vessel in case additional help was needed. Tragically, the next morning, the fishing boat capsized and sank, triggering an extensive search and rescue operation involving ships and aircraft.
The President of Greece, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, has expressed her deep sadness at the event and plans to go to Kalamata, where the migrants rescued after the catastrophe will move. Meanwhile, the former Greek prime minister and opposition leader, Alexis Tsipras, has described this incident as a “human tragedy” reflecting the desperation of asylum seekers in Europe. Tsipras has called on humanity and to intensify efforts to locate the missing and provide support to survivors.
This tragic loss of life highlights once again the extreme risks faced by people who are forced to embark on perilous journeys in search of safety and opportunity. It underscores the need to urgently address the underlying causes of migration and work collaboratively to establish safe and legal pathways for migration, as well as guarantee the protection of the human rights of all individuals on the move in search of a life of dignity.
The international community must unite in solidarity
The international community must unite in solidarity and cooperation to address this humanitarian crisis.providing financial and logistical support to countries of transit and destination of migrants, strengthening search and rescue mechanisms at sea and promoting dialogue and regional cooperation to find sustainable solutions.
It is essential to guarantee the safety and protection of migrants at all stages of their journey, from the moment they leave their countries of origin until their arrival at their final destination. This implies strengthen international cooperation in the fight against human trafficking and migrant smuggling, as well as improve reception conditions and guarantee access to basic services such as medical care, housing and education.
The tragedy off the coast of Greece is a distressing reminder of the urgency of addressing the migration crisis from a humanitarian and human rights perspective. All countries must assume their responsibility and take concrete measures to guarantee the safety and well-being of people who are forced to leave their homes in search of a better life. Together, we can work towards a more just and compassionate world, where the dignity and rights of all are respected.
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