In a quest for justice, bereaved families in Pakistan are pressing for compensation from the Greek government, marking a year since one of the deadliest shipwrecks in the Mediterranean claimed the lives of hundreds of migrants.
Suleman Tariq, whose brother Usman Tariq was aboard the ill-fated vessel but not officially declared deceased, reflects the desperation that often drives Pakistanis to risk the treacherous journey to Europe. “Since my brother went missing, our financial situation has worsened. I have no choice but to leave Pakistan to help my family repay the loan we took,” Suleman explained, underlining the economic pressures that push many towards illegal migration.
The tragedy, involving a boat carrying over 750 people, resulted in the recovery of only 82 bodies, with up to 350 Pakistanis on board according to Islamabad authorities. The incident has deeply scarred families like that of Fakhara Usman, who gave birth to her second daughter shortly after losing her husband. Describing the hardship, Fakhara shared how their family borrowed significant funds from relatives to pay smugglers, highlighting the dire circumstances that propel many towards risky migration routes.
In response to the heightened smuggling activity, Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has intensified its efforts, leading to multiple arrests and legal actions against human traffickers. Despite these crackdowns, the lure of economic opportunity abroad remains compelling for many in Pakistan, exacerbated by ongoing economic challenges.
Reflecting on the tragedy, Rehana Naz, whose son is still missing, criticized the Greek coastguard’s response, alleging negligence in rescuing those aboard the sinking vessel. “It was the moral responsibility of the Greek government to save the lives of these people,” she asserted, echoing the sentiments of local activists preparing to file a lawsuit in Athens. The legal action seeks accountability from Greek authorities for what families perceive as a failure to prevent needless loss of life.
The Mediterranean migration route, known as one of the world’s most perilous, continues to claim lives despite international efforts to curb illegal crossings. Survivors’ testimonies and humanitarian reports suggest delays in rescue responses, prompting calls for improved coordination and swift action in maritime emergencies.