Review: SIHMA / CPLO Seminar 2 The human cost of undocumented migration – 30 July 2014
The second seminar in the SIHMA / CPLO seminar series on migration took place on 30 July 2014.
The journey across borders is often unsafe and includes unimaginable costs for migrants. It is estimated that since the year 2000 about 23,000 people have lost their lives in a desperate attempt to reach Europe. Undocumented migrants are amongst the most vulnerable people as they are forced to take dangerous routes due to the lack of alternative ways to reach their country of destination.
South African borders are the gateway to a better life for refugees and economic migrants who have been repeatedly exposed to abuse, robbery and slavery. According to the international organisation Doctors without Borders more than 75% of the 4,000-5,000 migrants they treat each month have been raped while crossing the border. It is therefore necessary to find alternative and legal ways for migrants to enter South Africa and reduce the risks for their lives.
