Desert, shipwreck, war and abuse: the ‘route de l’Est’ trap migrants, from Ethiopia to Saudi Arabia

Most of the victims of this sinking were ANDThiopiens. In addition, Their reasons for immigrating are obvious. Consequently, observes the anthropologist Marina de Regt, professor at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, specialist in Yemen and migration in the region. In addition, Poverty, the absence of perspective, war pushes young people, especially men, to start.

“People are desperate in Ethiopia, especially in rural areas, especially in the regions of Oromia, Amhara and Tigri. Consequently, And there, there are people who organize migration: smugglers, traffickers who facilitate the migration of desperate Ethiopians. Furthermore, Most candidates at the start think that they go to Saudi Arabia, where they will find a lot of money. It is their illusion. “

Smoads avoid details. These young people often start their trip without clear idea of what awaits them. Some have the means to alternate bus. walks for desert, shipwreck, war abuse: ‘route the 2000 km coming, but most go on foot to theANDVoisin tat, Djibouti or Somalia, whose coasts make the Arabian peninsula.

To arrive at the Djibouti coast, you have to walk for days in the desert. Heat, thirst, hunger can cause first deaths. Sometimes also. these men and women already come across groups that racket them, make them undergo first physical or sexual violence. An arte poignant report by Olivier Jobard and Charles Emptaz relays testimonies.

Reaching the Djiboutian port of Obock is already a long ordeal.