Another migrant tragedy

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Yet another tragic loss of lives has unfolded in the Atlantic, as around 50 Pakistanis perished while attempting to reach Europe. Their boat, carrying 86 migrants, left Mauritania for Spain's Canary Islands. While 36 were rescued, the fate of 44 others, mostly Pakistanis, is grim. This is another painful reminder of the growing dangers faced by those seeking a better life through irregular migration.

Despite repeated assurances from governments, locally and abroad, about cracking down on human trafficking networks, little progress has been made. These networks continue to thrive, exploiting the hopes of vulnerable people and placing them in life-threatening situations. The current approach is clearly failing, and these empty promises have cost countless lives. What is needed now is a robust, coordinated system between source and destination countries. Dismantling trafficking networks should be a top priority, but it cannot stop there. Both sides must also address the systemic issues that drive people to take these risks in the first place - lack of economic opportunities, political instability and social inequality. Investments in these areas can help reduce the pressure to migrate illegally. Equally important is the responsibility of destination countries to create safer, legal pathways for migration. The focus must shift from punitive measures to protective ones. Border security is important, but it should not come at the expense of human lives. Ensuring migrants have a safe means to pursue better opportunities is a humane and pragmatic solution.

This latest tragedy should serve as a wake-up call. It is time for governments to go beyond rhetoric and implement meaningful reforms that protect lives and offer real hope. Without a balanced approach of protecting lives and keeping borders safe, more lives will be lost and the cycle of desperation and death will continue.