Jessica Abrahams is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom. She specializes in covering topics around gender, global development and international affairs.

Migrants cross the Mediterranean from Turkey to the Greek island of Lesbos

04 Jul 2017  |  Devex  |  English  |  Securitization of Aid

The article discusses the European response to the migration crisis, where a million refugees and migrants arrived in Europe in 2015, many via the Mediterranean Sea. European governments faced criticism for their political paralysis as thousands died attempting the journey. The EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa was created to address the root causes of irregular migration. However, the alignment of development aid with migration objectives has sparked debate. Critics argue that this focus shifts priorities from the needs of recipient countries to the domestic objectives of donors, potentially blurring the line between aid and security. The EU's development policy now includes tackling migration, with significant funds being redirected towards this goal. The article also touches on the securitization of aid, with concerns about aid money being used for hard security measures. The EU insists that development cooperation goes hand in hand with political dialogue and respect for human rights. The long-term goal is to transform irregular migration into legal, orderly flows, aligning with the global 2030 agenda.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) International Organization for Migration Concord European Commission Oxfam EU African Peace Facility European Parliament

Delali is a freelance journalist, researcher, and photographer based in Ghana. He has written on governance, health, education, the environment, the cocoa value chain, and film.

Delali has produced work for The Continent, SWI Swissinfo, Africa is a Country, Equal Times, ADP Rethink Quarterly and ...

The media's role in combating child trafficking in Ghana

05 Apr 2023  |  Citinewsroom - Comprehensive News in Ghana  |  English  |  Human Rights

The article discusses the issue of child trafficking in Ghana, particularly around the Volta Lake where children are trafficked to work in the fishing industry. The International Justice Mission (IJM) has conducted rescue missions but has identified significant gaps in the fight against child trafficking, including poor capacity of state welfare agencies and lack of enforcement of existing laws. The 2005 Human Trafficking Act in Ghana, which prescribes severe penalties for trafficking, is not effectively enforced, leading to continued exploitation of children. The article suggests that the media can play a crucial role in raising awareness and holding authorities accountable, as it did with illegal mining in the past. The author, Delali Adogla-Bessa, emphasizes the economic dimensions of child trafficking and the potential for media advocacy to support legal efforts and prompt action from better-resourced task forces.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) Challenging Heights

Nidzara Ahmetasevic is a journalist based in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. She has a long career as a journalist working for various local, regional and international media on human rights, war crimes, and international affairs, migrations. Her work has been published in The New Yorker, Al ...

Act One

19 Nov 2019  |  Kosovo 2.0  |  English  |  EU Immigration Policy

The article describes the dire conditions and police brutality faced by refugees in the Vučjak camp near Bihać, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The camp, situated on a former landfill and surrounded by minefields, is where men with no space in other camps are forced to live. The local Red Cross provides two daily meals, but the refugees, including minors, lack proper clothing and footwear, often as a result of attempts to cross the border or mistreatment by Croatian police. The article details an incident of a police officer assaulting a refugee and the subsequent intimidation of the journalist by police. It also covers earlier events of the day, where police segregated refugees at the Bira camp and forcibly transported them to Vučjak. The EU, through organizations like IOM, UNHCR, and DRC, funds the camps, but there is a lack of transparency in how the funds are used, with allegations that a significant portion is allocated to strengthening border control rather than improving conditions for migrants. The article criticizes the EU for witnessing the humanitarian crisis and violence at its borders without taking effective action.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) Red Cross UNHCR Danish Refugee Council (DRC) European Union UNICEF

Islam Alatrash is a journalist based in the Libyan capital, Tripoli. His work has appeared in Reuters, Al Jazeera Arabic, DW Arabic and Al Araby, among others.

Libya flood victims: Difficult search for missing migrants

09 Sept 2023  |  www.dw.com  |  English  |  Humanitarian Crisis

Devastating floods in eastern Libya have resulted in a difficult search for missing migrants, with many victims from the Egyptian community in Derna. The confirmed death toll is around 4,000, with over 500 non-Libyans identified, including Sudanese, Syrians, and Bangladeshis. Approximately 10,000 people are missing, and 40,000 have been displaced by Storm Daniel. The International Organization for Migration and Human Rights Watch are concerned about the migrants' vulnerability, especially in the chaotic state of government in Libya. Communications breakdowns have hampered search efforts, and migrants face heightened xenophobia and difficulties in accessing basic services.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) UN's Refugee Agency Human Rights Watch

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Mohammed Harun Arsalai is an independent journalist - his work has been featured in the Nation, Al Jazeera,
 LA Times, TRT World, Muftah Magazine, The New Arab, OZY, AJ + among many others

Mohammed is cofounder of the independent media project, Documenting Afghanistan. Currently on the based ...

Alessandra Bajec is a journalist based in Cairo since 2013. From 2010 to 2011, she lived Palestine where she made her first steps as a freelance journalist. She has experience in writing for print, online media along with some radio experience. Her work has appeared in UN's IRIN, Russia Today's rt....

Yazidis In Limbo As Iraqi Forces & Armed Militants Fight in Northern Iraq

06 Jul 2022  |  Toward Freedom  |  English  |  Humanitarian Crisis

Since the Islamic State's invasion of Sinjar in 2014, the Yazidi community has faced genocide, leading to the displacement of approximately 300,000 Yazidis. Despite the defeat of ISIS, Sinjar remains largely in ruins, lacking basic infrastructure and services, which prevents many Yazidis from returning home. The security situation is further complicated by the presence of various armed groups and frequent Turkish airstrikes. The Yazidi community continues to live in dire conditions in IDP camps and informal settlements, with limited access to education, healthcare, and employment. Organizations like the Free Yezidi Foundation offer support and training to help Yazidis rebuild their lives, but the lack of government action and international assistance hampers recovery and return efforts.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) People’s Protection Units (YPG) Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) Iraqi army Sinjar Resistance Units (YBS) Ezidxane Security Forces Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) United Nations High Commissioner on Refugees (UNHCR) World Food Program (WFP) Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC)

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Laurel Chor is a freelance photographer, writer and filmmaker based in Hong Kong. She was most recently the Asia reporter/producer for VICE News Tonight on HBO, where her film about Chinese migrant workers won an Overseas Press Club of America award in 2019. Before that, she was the Managing Editor ...

Rohingya refugees face "catastrophe" after escape from Myanmar

16 Oct 2017  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Refugee Crisis

Rohingya refugees are facing a dire humanitarian crisis in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, after fleeing a systematic campaign of mass killing, rape, and torture by Myanmar's army, described by the UN as having the hallmarks of ethnic cleansing. Over 500,000 refugees, 60% of whom are children, are living in overcrowded camps lacking basic necessities. Aid agencies warn of a potential catastrophe due to the spread of infectious diseases and severe malnutrition among children. The Bangladesh government, with WHO and UNICEF, has launched a massive oral cholera vaccination campaign. Despite efforts to improve conditions, concerns of a 'mega camp' and disease outbreak persist.

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IOM (International Organization for Migration) WHO (World Health Organization) United Nations UNICEF MSF (Médecins Sans Frontières) Save The Children

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I am a freelance journalist based in Dakar, Senegal, from where I cover the West-Africa region. I have a good sense of story and am particularly interested in migration issues. I write and make audio for broadcast or the web in English, French and Italian. I also shoot my own pictures and work with ...

The role of the diaspora in Senegal's development

19 Jun 2017  |  New Internationalist  |  English  |  EU Migration Policy

The article discusses the issue of irregular migration from Senegal, highlighting the harsh living conditions and lack of opportunities that drive many to leave. It focuses on the story of Mamadou Diop, a Senegalese who moved to France to study and is now preparing to return to Senegal. The EU's 'Partnership Framework' with Senegal and other countries is mentioned as an effort to manage migration by addressing its root causes. The article also covers the role of the diaspora in Senegal's economy, particularly through remittances and investments in local projects. The Senegalese government's initiative, FAISE, is described as a way to encourage emigrants to invest in Senegal, with the aim of creating jobs and having a positive socio-economic impact. Personal stories of Senegalese who have returned to invest in their country are shared, illustrating the challenges and successes they face. The article concludes by acknowledging the diaspora's key role in development and the need for more comprehensive strategies to address migration.

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IOM Senegal International Organization for Migration (IOM) World Bank Fond d’Appui à l’Investissement des Sénégalais (FAISE) Delegation of the EU to Senegal

Una Cilic is a multimedia journalist, currently based in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Fleeing Home, Chasing Hope: The Refugee And Migrant Experience

18 Dec 2023  |  www.rferl.org  |  English  |  International Migrants Day

To commemorate International Migrants Day on December 18, RFE/RL highlighted the plight of migrants and refugees across 23 countries. The report covers various crises, including Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion, ethnic Armenians leaving Nagorno-Karabakh, internally displaced Afghans, and the impact of the Gaza war. It features personal stories of hardship and the challenges of integration, such as a Kyrgyz family's journey to the U.S., Afghan Sikhs in India, and Ukrainian refugees in Israel. The article emphasizes the need for international support and long-term solutions to humanitarian crises.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) United Nations Taliban Hamas

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I am a journalist based in Dakar, Senegal who love to write about minorities, specially about women, and environment. I write for french newspapers and also for senegalese website but more than interested to develop others skills (radio for example) and ready to try new opportunities !
I also ...

“It’s the country of every man for himself!”: Desperate young Senegalese migrate to the Canary Islands via 'the deadliest route in the world'

25 Oct 2023  |  La Libre.be  |  French  |  Political Tension

The article highlights the increasing migration of young Senegalese to the Canary Islands due to economic hardship, high unemployment, and political tension. The perilous journey has resulted in numerous deaths, with significant numbers of migrants attempting the crossing. Economic factors such as inflation, resource depletion, and poor management of fishing agreements exacerbate the situation. Political repression and lack of opportunities further drive the youth to seek better lives abroad. The article features insights from experts and personal stories of migrants, emphasizing the dire circumstances and motivations behind this migration trend.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) Ministry of the Interior (Spain) Frontex Caminando Fronteras Greenpeace

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I am a Brussels-based independent journalist fond of European Union's affairs, migrations and social issues. Always a human being.

Women Serving in the Ukrainian Army

03 May 2022  |  www.rollingstone.it  |  Italian  |  Ukraine-Russia Conflict

Since the large-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, many Ukrainian women have had their first direct experience in defending their country. Kateryna Prymak, vice president of the NGO Veteranka, has been advocating for war veterans and women in the Ukrainian army since the 2013 Maidan protests. Women's roles in the military have expanded since 2016, with 31,000 women now serving, representing 15.6% of the total military personnel. Despite challenges such as misogyny and discrimination, women like Julia Mykytenko are proving to be reliable soldiers. The NGO also supports various humanitarian efforts amidst the ongoing conflict. Kateryna remains committed to her country, hoping for a victory that will allow displaced Ukrainians to return home in peace.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) Institute for Gender Programs Veteranka

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Eskinder Firew is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
He currently works for the Voice of America, Horn of Africa Service.He mostly reports in Ethiopian official language Amharic.He also reports in English when requested by the different services there.
When the South Sudan talks were ...

UN calls for safer migration from Horn of Africa to Gulf countries

10 Oct 2024  |  www.voanews.com  |  English  |  International Relations

The UN International Organization for Migration (IOM) is advocating for safer migration routes from the Horn of Africa to Gulf countries, highlighting the dangers of the eastern route where many migrants have died. The IOM emphasizes the need for safe and regular migration pathways to prevent exploitation by smugglers. Recent incidents off Djibouti's coast underscore the urgency, with smugglers forcing migrants into the sea, resulting in numerous deaths. The IOM calls for addressing root causes of migration, such as conflict, poverty, and climate change, urging international cooperation to ensure safe migration and support for displaced communities.

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IOM U.N. International Organization for Migration Djiboutian coast guard

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Mohammed Jelan Adem or simply knowns as Bileh Jelan, former Senior Reporter and Deputy Editor-in-chief of Addis Standard. I cover mostly the Horn of Africa region but my coverage extends to the Middle East and North Africa regions. I am multilingual.

Yemen requests Ethiopia to send special aircraft to repatriate victims' bodies, survivors of detention center fire

10 Mar 2021  |  addisstandard.com  |  English  |  Fire Incident

Yemen's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has requested Ethiopia to send a special aircraft to repatriate the bodies and survivors of a fire at a detention center in Sana'a, which killed and injured many Ethiopian migrants. The letter emphasized the lack of medical facilities in Yemen due to prolonged conflict and criticized the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for not fulfilling its duties. The IOM confirmed the fire's devastating impact and mentioned challenges in accessing the injured due to increased security. The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to respond to the request.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) Yemeni Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

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I'm a Warsaw-based journalist, producer, fixer, photographer and translator working in Central Europe and the Balkans currently mainly for Der Spiegel, one of Europe's top-notch magazines. 

Over the years, I have travelled throughout these regions extensively for multiple other news organizations, ...

In Bosnia, a Migrant Way Station Is Becoming a Winter Prison

20 Feb 2019  |  Foreign Policy  |  English  |  Bosnia and Herzegovina Migrant Situation

Zohaib Ali, a Pakistani student, has made 16 unsuccessful attempts to cross from Bosnia and Herzegovina into the EU via Croatia. Bosnia, previously peripheral to the migrant crisis, has become a bottleneck as migrants reroute through its challenging terrain. Over 23,000 migrants have arrived since January 2018, overwhelming Bosnian authorities and international actors like the Council of Europe. Ali plans to wait out the winter before trying to cross again, having faced theft and the harsh realities of migrant camps. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and local charity Pomozi.ba are involved in relief efforts. The situation is complicated by Bosnia's political structure and recent nationalist rhetoric. The EU has provided significant aid, highlighting Bosnia's reliance on the union. Tensions among migrants and between migrants and locals are rising, with instances of crime adding to the strain.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) Council of Europe Pomozi.ba

Badylon KAWANDA is a journalist based in Kikwiti, Congo The Democratic Republic. 

Languages : FRENCH, ENGLISH, LINGALA, KIKONGO

I have more than 20 years in journalism with a best experience in article writing, in investigative stories, features, web or blog contents… I am an exemplary ...

DRC: A Crisis the World Can No Longer Afford to Ignore

04 Mar 2018  |  Inter Press Service  |  English  |  International Aid

The article discusses the severe humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), highlighting the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs), especially women and children, who face violence, health issues, and lack of basic necessities. Nearly two million people were displaced in 2017, and the country is experiencing the worst cholera epidemic in 15 years. The crisis has escalated due to political instability and the presence of numerous armed groups. Humanitarian organizations are struggling to meet the growing needs, with a funding appeal of 1.68 billion dollars launched for 2018. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other agencies are working to provide assistance, but access is hindered by insecurity. The article calls for international attention and aid to prevent fatal consequences for the DRC and potentially the region.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) Norwegian Refugee Council FAO UNICEF World Food Programme (WFP) European Commission United Nations Dutch government

Pascal Laureyn is a journalist based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Rohingya Crisis Stokes Fears of Myanmar’s Muslims

24 Oct 2017  |  www.ipsnews.net  |  English  |  Religion

Tensions between Muslims and Buddhists in Myanmar are escalating amid the Rohingya crisis, with nearly 600,000 Rohingya fleeing to Bangladesh since August due to persecution. The government's propaganda and Buddhist nationalist hostility have spread to other Muslim communities, leading to discrimination and violence. The democratization of Myanmar has allowed extremist ideas to flourish, and the military is seen as exploiting the conflict to maintain power. Despite the tensions, some Buddhists and Muslims continue to coexist peacefully. An international pledging conference in Geneva raised over 344 million dollars to support Rohingya refugees, emphasizing the need for continued humanitarian aid.

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Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) International Organization for Migration (IOM) United Nations UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) European Union

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Chris Muronzi is a journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe.

The Zimbabwean de-miner in South Sudan

14 Jul 2023  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Human Interest

Job Tawengwa, a Zimbabwean de-mining expert, has been working in conflict zones since 1998, starting in Mozambique and extending to Iraq, Lebanon, Afghanistan, and South Sudan. In South Sudan, he was part of an EOD team contracted by UNOPS for UNMAS, tasked with clearing explosive remnants of war to protect civilians. Despite the high risks, including encounters with armed gunmen and militias, Tawengwa finds fulfillment in his work, especially when seeing communities safely use areas once avoided due to landmines. The article also touches on the broader context of migration from Zimbabwe due to socioeconomic pressures, with many seeking opportunities abroad.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS)

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Freelance journalist covering human rights and everything in between. I have worked with The Guardian, BBC, Euronews, Open Democracy, France 24, Center for Investigative Reporting (CIN) Sarajevo and Radio Free Europe. I currently contribute to NewsMavens, OZY and Equal Times.

Face à l’impasse des négociations d’adhésion à l’UE, les jeunes de Bosnie cherchent leur propre chemin vers l’Europe

16 Nov 2020  |  Equal Times  |  English  |  EU Integration

The article discusses the challenges faced by the 'Dayton generation' in Bosnia and Herzegovina, who are considering leaving the country due to its complex political system, economic stagnation, and lack of opportunities. The Dayton Peace Accords, which ended the Bosnian War in 1995, established a complicated political structure that has contributed to the country's difficulties. High youth unemployment, bureaucratic hurdles for business, and lower wages compared to other European countries are driving the youth to emigrate. The article also touches on the divisive education system and the potential for political and economic reforms. The brain drain is a significant concern, with the country losing both skilled labor and economic potential. The possibility of EU integration is seen as a potential solution, but the current political system is a major obstacle to this path.

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OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) International Organization for Migration (IOM) United Nations Friedrich Ebert Foundation Western Balkans Democracy Initiative European Court of Human Rights European Union

Alice Rowsome is a BAFTA-nominated filmmaker and journalist. 

Her work has been commissioned by National Geographic, The Guardian, Broadly, VICE Impact, The Independent, Refugees Deeply and other publications. Focusing on forced migration, climate change and women's rights, she has reported from ...

Drought and Displacement: Somaliland's Climate Refugees

05 Apr 2023  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Climate Refugees

The article discusses the plight of people in Somaliland, particularly women, who have been forced to flee their rural homes due to a severe drought exacerbated by climate change. Livestock, the backbone of Somaliland's economy, has been decimated, pushing tens of thousands into makeshift camps on the outskirts of Hargeisa. Women face dire conditions, including pregnancy complications, sexual assault, and lack of sanitary facilities. The article highlights the story of Hussein, a woman who miscarried due to dehydration and was later abandoned by her husband. The camps lack humanitarian aid, and residents must pay rent to landlords or risk eviction. The article also touches on the broader issue of climate refugees and the lack of international protocols to address their needs. It cites studies and experts on the gendered nature of environmental migration and the increased risks faced by women refugees.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) Amnesty International UNHCR American Meteorological Society Famine Early-Warning Systems Network (FEWSNET) Chatham House Third Generation Project Platform on Disaster Displacement

Laura Sepulveda is a journalist based in New York, United States of America. Bilingual (Spanish and English) multimedia reporter with experience as an anchor, in radio and Tv reporting as well as investigative journalism and public relations.
Disciplined professional, with leadership skills, ...

IOM identifies the 'most dangerous' points for migrants on their route through the Americas

14 Sept 2023  |  www.vozdeamerica.com  |  Spanish  |  Humanitarian Crisis

The Mexico-United States border, the Caribbean, and the Darién Gap are the deadliest areas for migrants in the Americas in 2022, with the Mediterranean Sea being the most dangerous globally. The International Organization for Migration recorded 668 migrant deaths at the Mexico-U.S. border in 2022, citing lack of regular migration routes as a primary cause. The Caribbean maritime routes and the Darién Gap also saw significant fatalities. In 2023, over 700 deaths have been recorded in the Americas, with the Mexico-U.S. border, the Caribbean routes, and the Darién Gap remaining the most perilous. Migrants continue to travel in large family groups, including minors. The U.S. State Department's spokesperson addressed policies to combat child sex trafficking at the border, with the Department of Homeland Security handling specific border operations.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) United States Department of State United States Department of Homeland Security

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Ben Shemang is a journalist based in Abuja, Nigeria.

Human Trafficking is a Threat to Africa

30 Jul 2023  |  www.dw.com  |  Croatian  |  Migration Crisis

Human trafficking and migrant smuggling are on the rise in West Africa, with over 15,000 Nigerian women and girls stranded in Mali. Victims recount harrowing experiences, highlighting the dangers and lack of prosecution for traffickers. Experts call for stronger government action and international cooperation. Organizations like NAPTIP, IOM, and Interpol are involved in efforts to combat the issue, but challenges remain due to the complexity of the criminal networks involved.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) Nigerian Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) Interpol ECOWAS

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Wies Ubags is a journalist based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. She mainly writes for newspapers and magazins in her home country The Netherlands, but also publishes in English.
Topics she knows a lot about: Colombia's conflict and peace processes with leftist guerrillas and rightist paramilitaries, ...

For many Venezuelans, the wait for Guaidó is too long, and neighboring Colombia notices

31 May 2019  |  Trouw  |  Dutch  |  Political Conflict

Venezuelan refugees, including the Guevara family, are fleeing to Colombia due to severe economic hardship and political instability under President Nicolas Maduro. Organizations like Terre des Hommes, IOM, UNHCR, and the Dutch Relief Alliance are providing essential aid and support. Despite hopes for opposition leader Juan Guaidó to bring change, many refugees are skeptical about the timeline and continue their arduous journeys to neighboring countries like Ecuador and Colombia. The ongoing crisis has led to millions fleeing Venezuela, with significant numbers seeking refuge in Colombia and Peru.

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International Organization for Migration (IOM) Terre des Hommes UNHCR Dutch Relief Alliance

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