The UN’s International Organization for Migration (IOM) on Sunday (December 17, 2023) said as many as 61 migrants, including women and children, were drowned in a shipwreck off the Libya coast.
“61 migrants including women and children drowned following a tragic shipwreck off Libya,” IOM posted on X.
The boat was carrying 86 persons.
The post further said: “According to the survivors, the boat with around 86 people left the libyan shores from Zwara.”
The IOM said the central Mediterranean region continues to be one of the world’s most dangerous migration routes.
The IOM estimates that more than 2,200 people have drowned while attempting the crossing this year alone, making it one of the most dangerous migration routes in the world, reported BBC.
UNHCR anticipates a rise in global refugee resettlement needs in 2024
UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, has anticipated a significant rise in global refugee resettlement needs for next year. According to the Projected Global Resettlement Needs Assessment for 2024 released earlier in the year, over 2.4 million refugees will be in need of resettlement, marking a 20 per cent increase compared to 2023.
With a deepening refugee crisis and the emergence of new displacement situations, urgent action is required to address the escalating challenges faced by millions of refugees and displaced individuals worldwide.
“We are witnessing a concerning increase in the number of refugees in need of resettlement in 2024. Resettlement remains a critical lifeline for those most at risk and with specific needs,” said Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees. “I ask all states with the means to step up and provide sustainable and multi-year resettlement commitments to offer safety and protection to those in need and to share the international community’s responsibility for refugees.”
The Asia region tops the list of estimated needs in 2024, with nearly 730,000 refugees requiring resettlement support, representing 30 per cent of global needs.
