Author: RACHAEL ADEEGBE

A growing controversy has emerged around migration policies in Greece after the arrest of a humanitarian worker and new reports alleging abuse against asylum seekers, raising serious human rights concerns across Europe. The case centers on Tommy Olsen, founder of the Aegean Boat Report NGO, who was arrested in Norway following a European arrest warrant issued by Greek authorities. He is accused of involvement in migrant smuggling and facilitating irregular entry. However, rights groups, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, argue the charges are politically motivated and warn that his extradition could criminalize humanitarian work. The controversy deepened after…

At least dozens of migrants have died in two separate boat disasters off the coasts of Italy and Turkey, highlighting once again the dangers of irregular migration routes across the Mediterranean. In the first incident, the bodies of 19 migrants were recovered near the Italian island of Lampedusa after a rescue operation carried out by the coastguard. According to the island’s mayor, Filippo Mannino, seven survivors — including two children — were rescued but are receiving treatment for hypothermia and exposure to fuel fumes. The rescue took place about 135 kilometres off Lampedusa, within Libya’s search-and-rescue zone. Reports indicate that…

The Anglican Alliance has launched a new resource to help churches better support migrants, refugees, and internally displaced people worldwide. Developed in partnership with advocacy representatives from the Anglican Communion Office, the guide responds to growing demand from churches seeking practical ways to engage with migration issues. Called People on the Move is a resource that guides key areas such as mental health, legal assistance, safeguarding, child protection, pastoral care, and advocacy. It aims to equip church leaders and congregations with tools to respond effectively to the challenges faced by people on the move. The initiative comes at a time…

The European Union is taking stronger steps to control migration, with new policies that critics say resemble strategies used under Donald Trump. These changes focus on tracking, detaining, and deporting migrants more quickly, including sending some to “return hubs” outside Europe. According to officials, the new measures are part of the Pact on Migration and Asylum, which is expected to take effect in June. Ursula von der Leyen said the reforms are designed to prevent a repeat of the 2015 migration crisis, when about one million people entered Europe seeking asylum. A key part of the plan is the creation…

Emergency teams in Croatia have rescued about 30 migrants after their boats capsized while trying to cross the Sava River near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. The incident happened late at night as the group attempted to move through a flooded area between the villages of Štitar and Babina Greda. Heavy rainfall had caused the river to overflow, turning the surrounding forest into a dangerous and waterlogged zone. Authorities received an emergency alert in the early hours, prompting a large rescue operation. Around 100 responders, including police, firefighters, civil protection teams, and the Red Cross, worked through the night…

The U.S. state of Indiana is set to become the first in the country to revoke all commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) held by undocumented migrants, marking a major shift in immigration and transport policy. The new law, which takes effect immediately, requires non-U.S. citizens to prove English proficiency before they can apply for a CDL. It also introduces strict penalties for businesses and driving schools that fail to comply, including fines of up to $50,000 for employing or licensing individuals without legal status. State authorities will work closely with the Department of Homeland Security to identify drivers who may no…

The administration of Donald Trump has announced a partial easing of asylum restrictions, allowing certain vetted migrants to proceed with their applications while maintaining strict limits on individuals from so-called high-risk countries. According to the Department of Homeland Security, the change lifts a previous pause on processing asylum claims for applicants who have already undergone thorough screening. However, officials emphasized that strict vetting procedures will remain fully in place. The policy shift follows a violent incident in Washington, D.C., last year involving an Afghan asylum seeker, which led to tighter immigration controls. In response, the administration had introduced a freeze…

The governments of the United Kingdom and France are continuing discussions on a new agreement to tackle small boat crossings across the English Channel. The talks come as migration numbers remain high, putting pressure on authorities to find effective solutions. In 2025 alone, more than 41,000 migrants arrived in the UK by small boats, showing a steady rise over the past three years. This has increased pressure on Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to reduce the number of crossings. Reports suggest that the UK is pushing for a new deal that includes performance-based conditions. This means funding given to France could…

The governments of Belgium and Algeria have signed a new agreement aimed at speeding up the return of Algerian nationals without legal residence in Belgium. The deal was signed by Maxime Prévot, Anneleen Van Bossuyt, and Ahmed Attaf. The agreement is expected to make the deportation process faster and more efficient. Officials say the time needed to confirm a migrant’s identity will drop from several months to about 15 days. In addition, the validity of temporary travel documents, known as “laisser-passer,” will be extended from one day to 30 days, giving authorities more time to complete returns. Under the new…

A Filipino choral group based in the United Kingdom is using music to bring together migrants, faith, and culture in a powerful way. The Sinag Himig Chorale London has become a strong voice for Filipino communities abroad, using songs to connect people and inspire unity. Founded in 2021, the group started with a simple goal of performing at a fundraising concert. However, it quickly grew into a close-knit community of singers who share a common purpose. Today, the chorale is known not just for its music but for its mission to serve and uplift people through faith. According to the…