Tragedy at Sea: The Dangerous Journey of Ethiopian Migrants

A tragic shipwreck off Yemen's coast claimed the lives of at least 68 Ethiopian migrants over the weekend, with 74 others missing. Only twelve of the 154 passengers survived, casting a spotlight on the perilous journeys many undertake seeking better opportunities.

Despite Ethiopia's relative stability since the end of the Tigray conflict in 2022, high youth unemployment — over 20% — drives many to risk perilous sea crossings towards Gulf regions. Survivors recall harrowing experiences and capture the desperation fueling such choices.

Experts and authorities urge for legal migration channels and tackling root causes, as emphasized by Ethiopia's foreign ministry and the African Union. Yet, many desperate to escape are subjected to exploitation, with repeated crossings still common.

(With inputs from agencies.)