Thousands of Senegalese migrants have attempted to reach Spain’s Canary Islands by boat in recent months, risking their lives in the perilous Atlantic crossing. Many have died or gone missing along the way, while others have been intercepted by the Senegalese navy and returned to their homeland. What is driving this surge of migration, and what are the challenges and opportunities for both Senegal and Spain?
The main factors behind the increase in migration from Senegal are economic hardship, political instability, and environmental degradation. Senegal is one of the poorest countries in the world, with a GDP per capita of $1,523 in 2023, according to the World Bank. The country has been hit hard by the global recession, the decline in tourism, and the disruption of trade and remittances due to the pandemic. Many Senegalese, especially young people, face unemployment, poverty, and lack of opportunities in their country.
Moreover, Senegal has been experiencing a political crisis since the arrest and imprisonment of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko in February 2023 on charges of rape that he denies. Sonko’s supporters have staged violent protests nationwide, demanding his release and accusing President Macky Sall of trying to eliminate his main rival ahead of the 2024 presidential election. Sall, who is serving his second term, has denied any involvement in Sonko’s case and has called for dialogue and calm.
In addition, Senegal is facing the effects of climate change, such as drought, desertification, and coastal erosion. These have reduced the availability of land and water for agriculture and fishing, which are the main sources of income for many rural communities. Some Senegalese have been forced to abandon their villages and move to urban areas, where they face overcrowding, poor sanitation, and social exclusion.
For many Senegalese, migration is the only way to escape their dire situation and pursue a better life in Europe. Spain, only about 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) away from Senegal, is the preferred destination for many migrants, as it offers access to the European Union and its labor market. However, the journey to Spain is fraught with dangers and difficulties. The route to the Canary Islands, which are part of Spain, is one of the deadliest in the world, as migrants have to navigate the open sea in overcrowded and unsafe boats, often without enough food, water, or fuel. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), more than 1,300 people died or went missing on this route in 2023, and more than 15,000 arrived in the Canary Islands.
The arrival of migrants in the Canary Islands has posed a challenge for Spain, which has struggled to provide adequate reception and accommodation facilities, as well as health and legal assistance. Spain has also faced pressure from the European Union, which has urged it to increase its border controls and prevent irregular migration. Spain has cooperated with Senegal and other African countries to enhance their maritime surveillance and rescue capacities, as well as to promote legal and safe migration channels, such as work and study visas. Spain has also supported development projects in Senegal, aiming to address the root causes of migration and create opportunities for the local population.
However, these measures have not been enough to deter or satisfy the aspirations of many Senegalese, who still see migration as their only hope for a better future. Some migrants have expressed their determination to reach Spain, even if it means risking their lives or facing deportation. As one migrant told Reuters, “It’s Spain or death”. Others have appealed to the Senegalese government to improve the living conditions and prospects of its people so that they do not have to leave their country. As another migrant said, “We want to stay here, but we need work, we need education, we need health.”
The migration crisis in Senegal and Spain is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive and humane response from both countries and the international community. It is also an opportunity for dialogue and cooperation, as well as for mutual understanding and respect. Migration can be a force for development and integration if it is managed in a way that respects the rights and dignity of migrants, as well as the interests and obligations of states.
Source: Reuters
