27 Europe-bound migrants die as boats capsize off Tunisia

Sub : IR

Sec: Places in news

Context:

27 migrants, including women and children, tragically died after two boats capsized off the coast of central Tunisia. The migrants were from sub-Saharan African countries, and they were attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea to reach Europe.
The bodies of the deceased were found near the Kerkennah Islands, which are located off the coast of the city of Sfax, Tunisia.

The Mediterranean Crossing:

Each year, tens of thousands of migrants attempt the hazardous Mediterranean crossing for better economic opportunities or to escape violence and poverty in their home countries.
Tunisia is a key departure point for irregular mi grants seeking to reach Europe with Italy, whose island of Lampedusa is only 150 kilometres from Tunisia, often their first port of call.
The journey is fraught with danger due to the unpredictable weather, overcrowded boats, and inadequate safety measures.