Off the coast of Senegal, navy commander Assane Seye leads a team patrolling the waters for vulnerable boats carrying migrants on a dangerous journey towards Spain's Canary Islands. The navy's efforts have intensified as the number of migrants attempting this perilous route continues to rise.
Since the beginning of 2024, the Senegalese navy has rescued 4,780 individuals, a significant increase from the previous year. Patrols often encounter overcrowded wooden boats, with one recent interception involving more than 200 people enduring harsh conditions after spending days at sea.
Intercepting these boats is considered a humanitarian mission, with the navy obligated to ensure the safety of the migrants, regardless of whether they requested assistance. The treacherous nature of the journey poses significant risks, with the potential for accidents or adverse weather conditions putting lives in jeopardy.
Upon rescue, migrants are brought ashore and given the freedom to leave, although those from other countries are repatriated. The Canary Islands route has emerged as a popular alternative to the Mediterranean, with Spain witnessing a surge in irregular migrant arrivals in 2024.
Efforts to address the root causes of migration are underway, with Senegal's new President focusing on reforms to improve living standards and retain the country's youth population. Legislative elections were recently held to potentially pave the way for these reforms to be implemented.
Despite the dangers and challenges, some young Senegalese individuals remain determined to seek better economic opportunities in Europe, highlighting the complex socio-economic factors that drive migration from the region.
Migration remains a contentious issue globally, and the situation in Senegal underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the underlying causes and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals seeking a better future.
Follow AP’s coverage of migration issues at AP News - Migration Hub
