More than 1,000 migrants have been rescued off the coast of West Africa after attempting the perilous Atlantic migration route to Europe, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has reported.
The humanitarian organisation said 1,046 people were rescued in a single week while travelling in seven boats that had departed The Gambia and were heading towards Spain’s Canary Islands.
According to MSF, the boats became stranded at sea before the migrants were intercepted during the last week of August. They were subsequently taken to Nouadhibou in Mauritania and the cities of Rosso and Dakar in Senegal.
Thousands of mostly young migrants attempt the dangerous Atlantic route each year, often travelling in overcrowded and poorly maintained boats in the hope of reaching Europe through the Canary Islands.
Many make the journey while fleeing poverty and difficult living conditions, turning to irregular migration routes as European countries have tightened border controls and significantly restricted visa access.
MSF said many of those rescued were experiencing serious health problems following their ordeal at sea.
The survivors reportedly suffered from extreme dehydration, unconsciousness, bone fractures, severe exhaustion, as well as skin, gastric and respiratory infections.
“The psychological impact on the survivors is profound, as many witnessed their loved ones die during the crossing”, it added.
The group included 134 women, one of whom was pregnant, and 88 minors, according to MSF.
Most of the migrants were from Senegal and The Gambia, while others came from Mali, Guinea, Ivory Coast and several other countries.
Several survivors told MSF they had experienced violence both in their countries of origin and during their journeys along the migration route.
The latest rescues highlight the continuing dangers faced by migrants attempting to cross the Atlantic in search of safety and better economic opportunities in Europe.
Despite the risks, the route remains active, with thousands continuing to attempt the journey aboard boats that can be vulnerable to mechanical problems, overcrowding and harsh sea conditions.
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