By: BNN Correspondents
January 16, 2024 at 3:09 am EST
In the Horn of Africa and Yemen, one of the world’s most treacherous migration corridors, hundreds of thousands of migrants embark on a perilous journey each year. This high-risk route, popularly known as the Eastern Route, sees migrants often resorting to irregular migration methods and relying heavily on smugglers. A recent regional report provides a comprehensive monthly update on these intricate migration patterns that span Djibouti, Somalia, Yemen, and Ethiopia.
The Plight of Migrants
The report, leveraging data from various sources and insights from local informants, offers a deep dive into the primary concerns surrounding the safety and protection of migrants on this hazardous journey. Conflicts, such as those in Sudan, significantly impact migration, particularly at the Ethiopia border. The report pays special attention to the vulnerable situation of migrant children, a group particularly at risk during this grueling journey.
Repatriation and Return of Migrants
Furthermore, the report discusses the return of migrants from Saudi Arabia to their countries of origin – Ethiopia, Somalia, and Yemen. This return process is often fraught with difficulties and further underscores the need for robust systems to ensure the safe and dignified return of migrants.
Global Impact of Migration
Migration patterns are not limited to the Horn of Africa and Yemen. The article also discusses the plans for the repatriation of over a million foreigners without valid documentation in Pakistan, the majority of whom are Afghans. The recent influx of 100,000 refugees in Armenia due to renewed hostilities in the South Caucasus region, the refugee crisis in Ukraine, and the large number of Syrian refugees seeking refuge in neighboring countries are also highlighted. The
UNHCR continues its efforts to provide immediate assistance and closely monitor the situation in these various refugee emergencies.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is undertaking significant work to map the impacts of COVID-19 on global mobility at global, regional, and country levels. Using secondary data sources, they are monitoring travel restrictions and analyzing the status of country points of entry. In collaboration with Mozambique’s National Disaster Management Agency, the IOM conducts assessments and stakeholder consultations to monitor progress made towards solutions for displacement-affected communities in different districts.
