Migrants in Tunisia Forced to Take Riskier Routes Amid Increased Sea Patrols

Edited By: Aminata Diallo

In Tunisia, attempts to reach Europe by sea continue despite rising risks. Increased coastal surveillance and repeated interceptions have forced migrants, primarily from sub-Saharan Africa, to move along the shoreline between Sfax and Tunis in search of new departure points.

In the village of Ghedhabna, traces along the sand and forest areas reveal the discreet nighttime movements of migrants who sleep hidden among the trees before attempting to board small boats. According to local authorities, the second deadliest shipwreck of the year occurred off this coast on the night of October 21-22, resulting in 40 deaths, including 12 children under the age of five.

Many of those who attempt the journey come from makeshift camps around Jbeniana and Sfax, where thousands of migrants have been living in precarious conditions since mid-2023. Tighter maritime patrols have pushed smugglers to use more remote and dangerous routes, increasing the risks of shipwrecks.

Despite these dangers, departures continue, driven by lack of legal migration pathways, economic hardship, and the persistent operations of smuggling networks.