• https://www.bolnews.com/international/2023/12/saudi-space-ambitions-soar-high-with-axiom-agreement/Libya is a major starting point for migrants crossing the Mediterranean to reach Europe.
• This year, over 2,200 people have perished during this perilous journey.
• The majority of affected migrants were from Nigeria, Gambia, and other African countries.

Over 60 migrants are feared to have lost their lives in a shipwreck off the coast of Libya. Survivors revealed that the vessel, carrying approximately 86 people, departed from Zuwara. The boat was overwhelmed by high waves, leading to 61 migrants, including children, being missing and presumed dead.

Libya serves as a major starting point for migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean in their quest to reach Europe. The IOM reports that this year more than 2,200 people have perished. While undertaking this perilous journey, making it one of the most hazardous migration routes globally.

The majority of those affected in this recent incident were from Nigeria, Gambia, and other African countries. In response to the tragedy, the IOM mentioned that 25 survivors have been moved to a Libyan detention center, where they are receiving medical assistance.

IOM spokesperson called the death toll for this year a “dramatic number which unfortunately demonstrates that not enough is being done to save lives at sea”.

In June, a tragic incident occurred as a fishing boat sank off southern Greece. This resulted in the loss of at least 78 lives, while approximately 100 individuals were rescued. These Mediterranean crossings often involve migrants packed onto boats that are too small for safe travel.

People embarking on these journeys are typically aiming to reach Italy before moving on to other European countries. Motivations vary, with some fleeing conflict or persecution, while others seek employment opportunities.

This year, over 153,000 migrants have arrived in Italy from Tunisia and Libya, as reported by the UN’s refugee agency. The UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak engaged in discussions in Rome with his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni and Albania’s PM Edi Rama to address the issue of reducing illegal migration to Europe.

Earlier this year, Mr. Sunak identified preventing small boat crossings in the English Channel as one of the top five priorities for his government.

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