US territories: Efforts to save lives of migrants through new network

Thousands of people are losing their lives in this region crossing deserts, rivers and remote areas in search of a better life.

According to the UN Migration Organisation’s ‘Missing Migrants’ project, 1,433 deaths have been confirmed so far, the highest number since its inception in 2014.

The UN agency’s Global Data Institute runs the project, which this week launched the first network for missing migrants on American territory.

The initiative aims to protect the lives of migrants, improve data collection and provide support to the families of survivors.

Institute director Coco Warner said that when people have access to safe and regular migration routes, it increases their chances of contributing to the economic prosperity of their places of origin and destinations.

He said that the absence of these regular routes often leads to tragic consequences and is a missed opportunity.

Civil society organizations, government institutions, journalists and other important parties have been linked together through the new network.

A virtual cafe initiative was started three years ago under the Missing Migrant Project, in which participants meet each other.

looking for loved ones

The first session, held on Wednesday, focused on the challenges that families in Central America face as they search for their missing loved ones.

The UN agency says the cafe is the only place in the Americas region where civil society representatives, journalists, artists, researchers, and representatives of governmental and intergovernmental organizations come together to discuss migrant deaths and disappearances. discussed.

It is difficult to estimate the exact number of people who lost their lives while passing through this area, but till now the statistics show that during 2014 to 2022 seven thousand 495 people have died.

Through the new network, it will be possible to strengthen national and regional capabilities, so that accurate data and exchange can be done regarding the deaths and disappearances of migrants.

Through the recommendations issued on this basis, efforts will be made to prevent the death and disappearance of migrants, search and identify the dead, and arrange support and compensation for their families.

Also, through a strategic alliance, joint investigation arrangements will also be made.