This is an unimaginable tragedy. A deadly shipwreck has occurred off the coast of Cyprus. Bodies have been recovered, while others remain missing. The circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation. Sadly, we are witnessing yet another tragedy at sea.
Human lives are being lost and unfortunately the migration problem still hasn’t been addressed properly by countries in the region or by the European Union. This is both tragic and unacceptable.
Military conflicts and the imposition of military and economic power force the poorest social strata to migrate. These people planned to leave Syria or elsewhere in search of a better future. The route they followed, like many of their compatriots before them, is difficult and often proves dangerous.
Human traffickers and mechanisms that exploit human suffering and need undertake to create escape routes that are often risky. Cyprus lies in their path, whether by sea or by land through the occupied territories. This latter route, through occupied territories, is a plan by the occupying power, which weaponises migration and human suffering to advance its own agenda.
Migration is not circumstantial but a geopolitical issue that increases or decreases according to developments in the redistribution of power. However, it is primarily a humanitarian issue.
It is tragic and unjust for lives to be lost. For people to perish at sea under the circumstances described above. Developments in Syria currently appear to be driving migration, as evidenced by recent events.
It is clear that migration must be addressed comprehensively and based on a complete strategy. There needs to be—as has been said for years—an effective relocation mechanism from Eastern Mediterranean countries. Either to other European countries or through a repatriation plan, alongside providing adequate support and resources to the affected countries.
Human lives should not be lost. Ways must be found to address these issues through a collective effort, based on a comprehensive plan.
This discussion should not only return to the public sphere after a tragedy, after people have been lost and died at sea. Solutions are being sought and must be found. They must be established on a permanent basis.
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