A rubber boat carrying 55 passengers, including two babies, has overturned off the coast of Libya, the UN migration agency reports. The only survivors are two Nigerian women who were rescued by Libyan authorities. The boat was transporting migrants and refugees from various African countries when it sank approximately six hours after departing from al-Zawiya in north-western Libya.
So far in 2026, the IOM has reported that nearly 500 migrants have died or disappeared while trying to cross the Mediterranean from Libya. This region has become a critical departure point for many fleeing various crises across sub-Saharan Africa. Survivors mentioned that the dinghy set off late at night and overturned a few hours later near Zuwara.
It has become evident that despite the numerous tragedies, many continue to attempt this perilous journey in hopes of reaching Europe. Conditions inside Libya for migrants are severely harsh, with many survivors recounting tales of torture and abuse. The IOM has urged for stronger international cooperation to dismantle smuggling networks and provide safer migration pathways to prevent further loss of life at sea.
So far in 2026, the IOM has reported that nearly 500 migrants have died or disappeared while trying to cross the Mediterranean from Libya. This region has become a critical departure point for many fleeing various crises across sub-Saharan Africa. Survivors mentioned that the dinghy set off late at night and overturned a few hours later near Zuwara.
It has become evident that despite the numerous tragedies, many continue to attempt this perilous journey in hopes of reaching Europe. Conditions inside Libya for migrants are severely harsh, with many survivors recounting tales of torture and abuse. The IOM has urged for stronger international cooperation to dismantle smuggling networks and provide safer migration pathways to prevent further loss of life at sea.
