The UNHCR and IOM Call for Urgent Action to Prevent More Deaths at Sea

The recent tragedy in the Mediterranean off the Greek coast that killed dozens of people, including women and children, is the worst case of drowning in recent years. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have called for urgent and decisive action to prevent more deaths at sea.

Unknown Number of People on Board

According to various witness statements, the number of people aboard the boat is unknown, as it is believed to be between 400 and 750. So far, 104 people have been rescued, and 78 bodies have been recovered. However, hundreds are still unaccounted for, and there are fears they may have died.

Massive Search and Rescue Operation

The Greek Coast Guard announced a massive search and rescue operation on the morning of June 14 after the ship capsized. The immediate rescue of people in danger at sea is a basic rule of international law and a humanitarian and legal necessity that obliges shipmasters and states to assist them and prevent loss of life, regardless of their nationality or circumstances.

Call for European Union Action

The UNHCR and IOM also called on the European Union to put security and solidarity at the heart of its work in the Mediterranean, as well as to coordinate the actions of all EU countries and share responsibility. Additional channels for legal migration, responsibility-sharing, and all necessary maritime search and rescue measures are necessary.

Denunciation from UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk denounced what happened on Wednesday and called for action. He emphasized the need for additional channels for legal migration, responsibility-sharing, and all necessary maritime search and rescue measures.