By 
20-12-2024
Emma Wijnen
Team Pakistan Researcher,
Global Human Rights Defence.
The harrowing story of a Pakistani survivor, Hassan Ali, from a deadly Mediterranean Sea crossing sheds light on the dangerous journey undertaken by many Pakistanis seeking refuge in Europe. This particular survivor, who managed to endure a catastrophic boat accident that claimed dozens of lives, is a rare example of luck amid a devastating reality for countless others fleeing their home country.
Pakistanis, like many migrants, are increasingly risking their lives to reach Europe through the Mediterranean. The reasons behind their decision include: Pakistan’s socio-economic instability, rising poverty, political unrest, and a lack of opportunities. Many try to seek a better life abroad. In 2024 alone, around 180 thousand refugees arrived in Europe from the sea. These included around 3,000 Pakistani’s.
The Mediterranean route, while notoriously perilous, remains a favoured pathway because of its proximity and the relatively easier access to smuggling networks. Many Pakistanis choose to embark on these journeys, often through Libya or Tunisia, because they see Europe as a land of opportunity, offering the promise of employment, better education, and political stability.
However, the journey is not without its dangers. Thousands of migrants have died in the Mediterranean Sea, as overcrowded, unseaworthy boats capsize or are abandoned by smugglers. A horrible incident in 2023 cost the lives of almost 300 Pakistanis. Despite this, the lure of Europe’s perceived prosperity continues to drive migrants to take the risk, with many fleeing poverty and conflict in search of a new life. The tragic incident off the coast of Greece underscores the dire circumstances that compel Pakistanis and others to make the ultimate gamble for survival.
Sources and further readings:
Chughtai A and Hussain A, “ ‘If I die, I die’: Pakistan’s death-trap route to Europe” (Aljazeera, 20 December 2024) <https://www.aljazeera.com/features/longform/2023/12/9/if-i-die-i-die-the-allure-of-pakistans-death-trap-route-to-europe> accessed on 20 December 2024
Hussain A, “A ‘miracle’: Pakistani survivor of a deadly Mediterranean sea crossing” (Aljazeera, 20 December 2024) <https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2024/12/20/a-miracle-pakistani-survivor-of-a-deadly-mediterranean-sea-crossing> accessed on 20 December 2024
For the most accurate number of refugee arrivals in Europe: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, “Operational Data Portal” (UNHCR) <https://data.unhcr.org/en/situations/europe-sea-arrivals> accessed on 20 December 2024
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