Migrants on the route between Tunisia and Italy are sharing their harrowing experiences of terror and brutality in testimonials collected by Alarm Phone and Tunisian civil society. These accounts are highlighted in the “Sea interrupted” report published for World Refugee Day, which reveals the recurring practice of the Tunisian coast guard blocking crossings through threats, ramming, and causing shipwrecks.
The report also sheds light on alleged collaboration between EU countries and Tunisian authorities in managing and blocking arrivals, leading to rights violations against refugees. Among the accounts shared in the report is Alì’s tragic experience of a boat capsizing after being hit by the Tunisian coast guard, resulting in the loss of many lives, including children. Similarly, Maria recounts the horrific details of a boat drowning after being pushed by the authorities, leading to the loss of nine children, including her own.
Katie’s story describes her terrifying encounter with the coast guard circling their boat, creating waves and causing fear among passengers. Georges, Abdoulaye, Issouf, and Oumar also share harrowing experiences of violence and mistreatment by the Tunisian coast guard during their attempted crossings. These testimonies reveal instances of boat attacks, injuries, and even deaths caused by authorities’ actions. Mamadou and Bouba narrate how their boat was deliberately shipwrecked by the coast guard, resulting in casualties and loss of life.
Abdou and Fatoumata recount their desperate attempts to cross for a better life only to face violence coercion from Tunisian coast guard. These stories highlight challenges faced migrants on their journey as well as systemic violence perpetrated against them by authorities. The report aims to shift focus from individual responsibility to institutional accountability in addressing these human rights violations against refugees.
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