Global Issues
A Desert Horror: Libya Mass Grave Calls For International Intervention -By Ogholaja E. Olayemi Esq.
The question often asked is bordered on the circumstances by which these migrants’ falls into the hands of smugglers in an attempt to migrate to Europe. Scholars would have it that the lack of safe and legal migration pathways is the key reason why desperate individuals fleeing conflict, persecution and poverty are forced into the hands of ruthless smugglers. . In order to remedy these ugly trends, the way forward is to investigate the Libya mass grave to hold smugglers accountable for their evil deeds.
Libya has once again become a grim symbol of desperation and death for migrants seeking for better life in Europe. The discovery of a mass grave and a deadly boat journey has reignited calls for international intervention to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
According to migration project statistics, the treacherous journey across the Mediterranean Sea, especially the route from North Africa to Europe is considered the deadliest migration route in the world as over 3, 129 migrants have been reported to have died or disappeared along the route since 2023. On March 14th 2024, at least 50 fellow migrants lost their lives during a week long journey and on the 22nd of March 2024, the international organization of migration unearthed a horrifying truth of a mass grave in the south west Libya containing the remains of at least 65 migrants. The cause of death and nationalities of the victims remains shrouded in mystery but it is presumed that the migrants perished while crossing the unforgiving desert at the hands of smugglers.
The question often asked is bordered on the circumstances by which these migrants’ falls into the hands of smugglers in an attempt to migrate to Europe. Scholars would have it that the lack of safe and legal migration pathways is the key reason why desperate individuals fleeing conflict, persecution and poverty are forced into the hands of ruthless smugglers. . In order to remedy these ugly trends, the way forward is to investigate the Libya mass grave to hold smugglers accountable for their evil deeds. Strengthen search and rescue capabilities in the Mediterranean and provide for a safe and legal channel for migrants which would serve as alternatives to the perilous journeys facilitated by smugglers. Intervention from international community is needed to address the root cause of migration in order to prevent further tragedies and ensure the safety of those seeking a brighter future on foreign shores.
OGHOLAJA E. OLAYEMI ESQ.
