The ongoing conflict in Ethiopia is a significant driver of irregular migration to Yemen, contributing to the increasing number of migrants risking their lives at sea.
The Yemeni authorities are facing a dual challenge: addressing the humanitarian crisis posed by large influxes of migrants while also managing their limited resources and capabilities.
The organized nature of smuggling operations highlights the need for international cooperation and support to effectively combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable migrants.
If the current trends continue, the influx of migrants to Yemen may escalate further, straining the already limited resources of the Yemeni state.
Increased international attention and intervention may be necessary to address the root causes of migration and improve the safety of migrants attempting to reach Yemen.
The situation may lead to heightened tensions between local authorities and smugglers, as well as increased risks for migrants if the Coast Guard's capabilities do not improve.
The 'Road of Death' program by Al Jazeera 360 has shed light on the perilous journey of irregular Ethiopian migrants arriving in Yemen, particularly at the Ras Al-Ara area. The investigation highlights a significant increase in migration, with 20,000 Ethiopians reported to have arrived in March 2023 alone. Reports from the Yemeni intelligence office indicate that smugglers are actively transporting migrants, often leading them to dangerous situations.
Ali Ghabour, an activist focused on African immigrant rights, attributes the surge in maritime migration to the ineffective performance of the Yemeni Coast Guard and Border Guard, which struggle to manage the crisis amidst ongoing conflict and a lack of state authority. Colonel Yahya Al-Hatimi from the Yemeni National Army acknowledges the Coast Guard's limitations, stating they can only operate within national waters unless alerted to distress signals.
Despite efforts from the Yemeni Coast Guard, which conducts continuous patrols, the organized nature of smuggling operations complicates their effectiveness. Colonel Abdul Hussein Al-Dabash noted that 90% of smuggling activities occur via Ras Al-Ara, emphasizing the challenges faced by authorities in managing this crisis. Lawyer Abdullah Mohammed Fadhel remarked that while the Yemeni state is attempting to tackle the issue, the sheer volume of migrants far exceeds its capabilities.
