Tunisian authorities have intercepted nearly 70,000 migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean to Italy in the first 11 months of 2023, more than double the number recorded in the same period last year. This surge highlights the growing desperation of individuals seeking better lives in Europe.
Tunisia, along with its neighbor Libya, serves as a key departure point for migrants hoping to reach the European continent. Data released by the Tunisian National Guard reveals a significant increase in interceptions, from 31,297 in 2022 to 69,963 in 2023.
The composition of intercepted individuals has also shifted, with foreigners now accounting for 78% of the total, compared to 59% in 2022. This suggests a rise in migrants from other African nations transiting through Tunisia.
The spike in departures began in February, coinciding with President Kais Saied’s controversial remarks denouncing the arrival of “hordes of illegal migrants” from sub-Saharan Africa. He further claimed their presence was part of a plot to alter Tunisia’s demographic makeup.
These comments sparked a wave of anti-migrant sentiment within Tunisia, leading to a series of violent attacks. Several African countries, including Ivory Coast and Guinea, subsequently repatriated thousands of their citizens. Many migrants, fearing further violence, sought escape by sea, resulting in several tragic boat sinkings.
The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have accused Tunisia of engaging in “expulsions” of migrants to Libya and Algeria, a claim denied by Tunisian authorities. International sources estimate that over 5,500 individuals have been expelled to the Libyan border and 3,000 to Algeria since June, including those intercepted attempting to reach Europe.
These expulsions have tragically resulted in numerous deaths, with over 100 migrants reportedly perishing in the harsh Libyan desert this summer. Human rights organizations continue to express concern over the ongoing expulsions and their devastating consequences.
The majority of intercepted migrants were apprehended along Tunisia’s eastern coastline near Sfax, just 80 miles from the Italian island of Lampedusa. This strategic location facilitates attempts to reach European shores.
A further surge in departures occurred this summer following a deadly brawl in Sfax, which resulted in the death of a Tunisian citizen. The incident prompted police to detain and subsequently release hundreds of migrants into the desert, adding to the already volatile situation.
The escalating crisis underscores the need for comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of migration and ensure safe passage for those seeking refuge in Europe. International cooperation and respect for human rights are crucial factors in mitigating this complex and evolving situation.
