The Tunisian National Guard announced the recovery of 13 bodies of illegal migrants after their boat sank off the coast of the Mahdia governorate.
The statement from the National Guard explained that the boat was carrying 29 African migrants who embarked on their journey clandestinely and encountered a tragic accident at sea. A coastal fishing vessel managed to rescue two individuals, while the National Guard units recovered 13 bodies, which were then taken to the university hospital in Mahdia.
The search for the missing migrants continues, as stated by the National Guard.
Irregular migration from Tunisia has seen a significant surge since 2020, reaching levels not seen since the aftermath of the 2011 revolution. This increase in migration is attributed to a complex mix of economic and social factors within Tunisia, including a deteriorating economic situation, limited job opportunities, and the impact of unemployment or underemployment on individuals’ lives. The political landscape in Tunisia and the perceived inability or unwillingness of the leadership to address these issues have also played a role in driving people to seek better prospects abroad. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation, leading to job losses among migrants in Tunisia and an influx of migrants from neighboring countries, particularly Algeria, due to similar economic pressures and fears of deportation.
The city of Sfax, in particular, has become a focal point for migrants attempting to reach Europe, with many facing exploitation and xenophobia. Migrants in Sfax often endure low wages and harsh living conditions as they save money for the perilous journey across the Mediterranean. The local human rights organizations have reported numerous cases of violence and discrimination against sub-Saharan migrants, highlighting the dire circumstances these individuals face. The situation is further complicated by the challenges of obtaining legal visas, pushing many to resort to dangerous sea crossings as their only viable option for reaching Europe
