At least 13 Tunisians missing after migrant boat sinks off coast

A tragic incident has occurred off the coast of Tunisia, where a boat carrying migrants sank, leaving at least 13 Tunisians missing. The vessel was attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea towards Italy when the disaster struck.

Mostafa Abdelkebir of the Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights reported that two people were rescued following the sinking. One of the survivors recounted that the boat capsized after being stranded at sea for several hours. The second rescued individual is reportedly in critical condition.

Tunisia has historically been a significant departure point for migrants seeking to reach Europe. However, the number of individuals undertaking this perilous journey has decreased in the past two years due to political efforts and increased maritime surveillance, partly supported by European funding and equipment from Italy.

Despite these measures, human rights organizations like Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have voiced concerns. In July, they issued a statement expressing worry that the EU's migration agreement with Tunisia could facilitate serious abuses against migrants and asylum seekers. These groups have urged the EU to halt funding for migration and border control activities involving Tunisian security forces.

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The EU's migration agreement with Tunisia has helped to promote and normalize serious abuses against migrants and asylum seekers in Tunisia.