On June 14, 2023, a fishing boat carrying an estimated 750 people capsized off the coast of Greece. At last count, 104 survivors have been rescued, at least 78 people have died, and hundreds of passengers are still missing. Nearly all those on board were refugees from Afghanistan and Pakistan.
The International Organization for Migration estimates that “[n]early 3,800 people died on migration routes within and from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region last year (January-December 2022), the highest number since 2017.” These horrific incidents are far too common. We at Open Doors for Refugees extend our deepest sympathies to those on board or who had a loved one on board the Adriana, and support more government action to prevent and react to similar tragedies.
Organizations That Can Help
Here are a few organizations that are working to establish safe migration routes, prevent similar tragedies, and support those impacted. All accept donations.
- The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is calling on the EU and its member states to conduct a full, transparent investigation, expanding safe migration pathways, and commit to resettling at least 44,000 refugees in 2024.
- The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) are similarly calling for “urgent and decisive action to prevent further deaths at sea” and have been on the ground providing aid to survivors of the shipwreck.
- Amnesty International demands a full investigation into the incident and urgent support for survivors.
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