UN calls for safer migration from Horn of Africa to Gulf countries following recent migrant deaths

Recent events highlight the urgent need for action to protect vulnerable migrants. On October 1, smugglers forced migrants off two boats in the Red Sea, leading to numerous fatalities and many others missing. Most of the migrants were Ethiopians seeking economic opportunities in the Gulf region. IOM Director-General Amy Pope emphasized the necessity of establishing safe and regular migration pathways to prevent exploitation and abuse. She pointed out that addressing the root causes of migration, such as conflict, poverty, and climate change, is essential for creating a safer environment for those seeking better lives abroad.

The Eastern Route

The eastern migration route from the Horn of Africa to the Gulf is fraught with danger, yet it remains a critical pathway for many seeking employment. The IOM reported that more lives are lost on this route than on any other migration path globally, yet it often receives little attention. Pope advocated for the development of safer migration options, highlighting the economic opportunities available within the Gulf countries for both low- and high-skilled workers.

Recent Tragedies

The recent incident involved two boats carrying migrants who were forcibly pushed into the sea by smugglers. Survivors recounted the harrowing experience of being ordered to jump into the water, with many unable to reach safety due to darkness and lack of swimming skills. The IOM’s regional director for East, Horn, and Southern Africa, Frantz Celestin, detailed how the pilots abandoned the migrants and fled, leaving them vulnerable at sea.

Addressing Root Causes

During a regional review of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, Pope stressed the importance of tackling the underlying factors driving migration, such as conflict in Sudan and economic instability. She called for international cooperation to ensure that migrants can access safe migration pathways and obtain the necessary information to avoid exploitation by traffickers and smugglers. Addressing climate change and its impacts was also highlighted as a crucial aspect of migration management, as many are forced to flee their homes due to environmental factors.