French authorities have reported that a baby died after a boat overloaded with migrants attempting to cross the English Channel sank on Thursday night. Rescue teams were able to save 65 people, some of whom were in the water. However, an unconscious baby was also found, which local officials have confirmed later died. Prosecutors have opened an investigation into the death. On 3 September, six children and a pregnant woman were among 12 people who lost their lives after their boat sank off the French coast.
The year 2021 is set to become the deadliest for migrant crossings in the English Channel since 2018. Newly arriving dinghies are often seen to carry 50 or more migrants, far beyond what had been experienced previously. Many migrants do not wear life jackets when they set off on the dangerous crossing. Reports show that at least 53 migrants attempting to cross the Channel have died this year.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated that he is “absolutely determined” to address the issue of smuggling gangs that facilitate these crossings. While Enver Solomon, Refugee Council chief executive, said: “We are heartbroken that a baby has died in yet another devastating and depressingly preventable tragedy in the Channel. People who make the crossing are fleeing war, conflict, and persecution, and simply want to be safe. Seeking to disrupt the smuggling gangs alone will never be enough.” Solomon added that the government should provide “safe and legal routes” for refugees.
Moreover, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has stated that the deaths in the Channel are absolutely “preventable.” According to figures released by the Home Office, over 26,000 migrants have made their way to Britain through small boats since the beginning of the year. Until the root cause of the problem is addressed, this number should only increase as time goes on
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