Migrants to Europe have been fleeing from and through Tunisia for a variety of reasons. An ailing economy and the toughening of border measures elsewhere along the coast are among the main factors contributing to this trend.

Between April 19th and 24th, Tunisia’s coastguard recovered 70 bodies from the Mediterranean sea, adding to the growing number of fatalities in the country’s waters. Prior to this, 25 migrants died in the sea, bringing the total number of deaths to over 100 in a span of just a few weeks. This is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by migrants who attempt to cross the Mediterranean Sea in search of a better life.

After a period of decline between 2016 and 2019, the number of people traveling from North African countries to Italy or Malta is on the rise again. A growing proportion departs from Tunisia. Between January and April this year, some 24,000 people migrated by sea from Tunisia to Italy, with many traveling in makeshift boats. This figure is already close to the total number of migrants who arrived in Italy from Tunisia in the whole of 2022, which was just over 30,000.

So, why are so many people leaving Tunisia? The answer is multifaceted. Tunisia’s economy has been struggling for years, with high unemployment rates and widespread poverty. This has led many young Tunisians to seek better opportunities elsewhere, with Europe being a popular destination. Additionally, the toughening of border measures in other North African countries such as Libya has made it more difficult for migrants to leave those locations, leading them to turn to Tunisia as an alternative.

Tunisia’s government has been struggling to address this issue, as they are faced with the challenge of balancing the need to protect their borders while also ensuring that human rights are respected. In response to the surge of migrants, Tunisia has increased its coastguard patrols and taken steps to crack down on people smugglers, but these efforts have not been sufficient to stop the flow of migrants.

The situation in Tunisia highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing migration. This includes supporting the development of countries like Tunisia to create more economic opportunities for their citizens, as well as addressing the root causes of migration such as conflict and instability in other parts of the world. Additionally, it is important for countries to work together to create safe and legal channels for migrants to travel, rather than forcing them to risk their lives in dangerous sea crossings.

In conclusion, the surge of migrants leaving Tunisia is a complex issue with no easy solutions. However, it is important for countries to work together to address the root causes of migration and create safe and legal channels for migrants to travel. Only through a comprehensive approach can we ensure that the rights and safety of migrants are respected, while also addressing the concerns of host communities

By: Mr. WWK