Hey everyone! It's with a heavy heart that we share the devastating news from Greece. A refugee passenger boat, carrying approximately 750 passengers, sank in the Mediterranean Sea, marking one of the largest migrant disasters to date. Tragically, 500 passengers, including 300 from Pakistan, are still missing, and the number of casualties is expected to rise.
Before we delve further, let's test your knowledge: Can you recall how and when the European Union was formed? Share your answer in the comments below.
After this heartbreaking incident, Ylva Johansson, the EU Commission for Home Affairs, attributed blame to the smugglers behind this tragic event. These smugglers exploit vulnerable people, offering them false dreams of a better life in Europe. They lure them to Egypt, Libya, Algeria, or Turkey, from where they arrange perilous journeys on overcrowded boats, risking their lives to reach Greece, Italy, or Spain.
But what happens when these migrants reach the European shores? They disperse throughout Europe, seeking low-skilled jobs. If apprehended by the authorities, they often claim that their home country is plagued by conflict, hoping to gain asylum under Europe's laws. However, the reality is that Europe faces a complex challenge in handling the influx of migrants, assessing their eligibility for asylum, and addressing their integration into society.
Where do these migrants come from? They come from African states, Syria, Afghanistan, and even Pakistan, including Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), which might surprise you. The desire to enter Europe stems from the pursuit of a better life and opportunities that their home countries cannot provide. It's important to note that recently, Josep Borrell, the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, made a controversial statement, referring to Europe as a "garden" and the rest of the world as a "jungle." While he later apologized for his choice of words, it sheds light on the stark contrast in human development and the aspirations of people from war-affected countries to migrate to Europe, legally or illegally.
Are Europeans welcoming these refugees? Initially, Europe welcomed migrants to replenish their aging population and strengthen their workforce. However, over time, concerns emerged as integration challenges and criminal activities surfaced. Consequently, European governments implemented stricter immigration policies, intensifying coastal guard surveillance to prevent illegal crossings. Smugglers exploit adverse weather conditions or storms as opportunities to navigate through the reduced vigilance of coastal guards.
One might question the need for people from Pakistan and PoK to leave their homeland. This incident exposes the challenges faced by Pakistan's government and military in addressing the needs of its people. The lack of infrastructure, limited job opportunities, and limited press freedom in PoK have created a desperate situation for its residents. The Indian government has highlighted the plight of PoK, asserting that it has remained in the dark for 75 years. It's crucial for world leaders to question Pakistan's actions in PoK and ensure the well-being of its people. On the other hand, it is important for the government in countries to raise awareness among its citizens, cautioning them against falling prey to the promises made by smugglers from various countries.
We'd like to hear your thoughts on this deeply concerning topic. Share your opinions in the comments below. #MigrantCrisis #Refugees #Pakistan #PoK
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