Record-High Displacement and Migrant Challenges Highlighted

The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reports that by the end of 2023, approximately 117 million people worldwide were forcibly displaced, constituting about 1.5% of the global population. Of these, 47 million are children under 18 years of age. The UNHCR attributes this rise in displacement to ongoing conflicts and political repression in many parts of the world.

Key sources of migrants traveling to Europe include Syria, Afghanistan, Eritrea, Nigeria, Pakistan, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, Gambia, and Bangladesh. Many from Africa journey through the Mediterranean Sea, while others from Central America and Southeast Asia opt for risky routes to reach Europe or the US. Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Malaysia represent particularly perilous paths for migrants.

In parallel, a case has emerged involving Mohammad Al Kharewsh, a Syrian refugee detained in the UK’s Gatwick detention center for 25 days ahead of a planned deportation to Rwanda. Mohammad arrived in the UK in 2022, reuniting with his brother who had been granted asylum earlier. He and over 100 other asylum seekers were detained as part of the UK’s policy to deport irregular migrants to Rwanda, pending an election outcome on July 4.

The UN agencies and human rights organizations have drawn attention to the need for comprehensive investigations into migrant tragedies, particularly a shipwreck off Greece on June 14, 2023, which left hundreds dead. Survivors allege mishandling by the Greek coast guard, which officials deny. Despite initial investigations, no conclusive findings have been shared publicly. UN agencies stress the importance of justice for survivors and preventing future incidents.