Six more people die in migrant channel crossing.... what's going on ?

So normal Saturday night catching up with news, wondering what LFC are going to do against Chelsea in a few hours and then I came across this headline in the Times and then I almost flicked to the next story as this just seemed so normal but it can't be and should not be. Why are people taking these kind of life threatening migration decisions and how can we stop the world getting so desensitized to their fate.

To me, the economic conditions driving dangerous migration decisions are a brutal consequence of entrenched poverty, lack of opportunity, hopelessness and political instability. These factors fuel a sense of desperation that pushes individuals and families to embark on treacherous journeys in search of better prospects. The new world of social media promotes the allure of economic prosperity in wealthier countries which contrasts starkly with the grim reality migrants often face - exploitation, discrimination, and perilous conditions that often lead to the loss of life.

When I think back to how long this has been going on I shudder a little. Thousands have perished in the Mediterranean Sea while attempting the perilous journey from North Africa to Europe. I remember in 2015, the image of the lifeless body of a Syrian toddler washed ashore shocked the world, highlighting the horrors faced by those attempting to escape conflict and poverty. And its not just from Africa.

We had truck deaths in the UK when 39 Vietnamese migrants died in a refrigerated truck in the UK while trying to reach safety. They travelled in a fridge just to get to a better life !!. There are harrowing stories of Central American migrants making treacherous journeys to the United States in search of better lives highlighting the risks people are willing to take to escape violence, poverty, and lack of opportunities. We remember Trumps wall.

Many migrants perish in the deserts of North Africa and the US-Mexico border while attempting to cross dangerous terrain. These deaths underscore the urgency of addressing economic conditions that drive individuals to embark on such perilous journeys. And the list could go on and on.

To halt this tragic cycle, action must be taken and here are a few ideas:

Confronting Economic Disparities: Developed nations and international bodies must invest in robust economic programs that target job creation, poverty eradication, and equitable wealth distribution in source countries. Its not enough to provide aid and charity. It means providing real opportunities for growth that dissuade people from embarking on perilous journeys.

Empowering Through Education: Accessible, quality education and skills training should be prioritized to empower individuals to thrive in their home countries. Education equips people with tools to navigate their local economies, reducing the urgency to migrate. And we must not steal all the educated talent to come to the West.

Demolishing Corruption: Corruption devastates economies and pushes people toward desperate measures. Addressing corruption within governments and institutions is pivotal in allocating resources effectively and eradicating the need for migration as a survival strategy.

Demanding Good Governance: Political stability, transparency, and good governance breed confidence and trust among citizens. Such environments encourage domestic growth, reducing the incentives to seek better lives abroad.

Reforming Trade Practices: Developed nations must engage in ethical trade practices and responsible investment in developing regions. This can generate job opportunities, economic growth, and technology transfer, countering the drivers of migration.

Strengthening Safety Nets: Robust social safety nets, offering healthcare, unemployment support, and social assistance, can act as a buffer against vulnerability and reduce the desperation compelling people to migrate.

Unmasking Reality: Governments, NGOs, and international organizations need to candidly portray the grim truth of irregular migration, while promoting legal migration pathways. I had to search for a picture that wouldn't upset linkedin readers but Migrants should be aware of the real risks and the fact that they will most likely die.

To prevent further mishaps and pointless waste of life, a united global effort is required. By tackling economic disparity, corruption, and governance issues head-on, the international community can create a world where migration is a choice rather than a desperate necessity. Anything less is an affront to human dignity and a perpetuation of needless suffering.

We must not become immune to human tragedies. Enjoy your Sunday