Displaying items by tag: Small Boats

The ongoing migrant crisis has reshaped France’s northern coast, especially Boulogne. French rescue workers and officials are witnessing a tragic pattern of migrants fleeing death only to perish in dangerous Channel crossings. While both France and the UK condemn smuggling gangs, their responses differ. British authorities emphasise the criminality of smugglers, but French officials and citizens focus on the migrants’ motives, blaming the UK's loosely-regulated job market as a magnet for desperate people. The smugglers continue to adapt, launching boats from inland and resorting to violence. The French feel burdened by a crisis they see as Britain’s responsibility. Despite its significance, the issue gets less media coverage in France due to its own political challenges. Interior minister Gerald Darmanin continues to call for a new treaty between the UK and the EU; efforts against smugglers alone will not suffice to solve the issue.

Harassment, rejection, torture, and death cause many to flee their country. Faiza went from living a comfortable life with her Muslim family to being divorced, homeless and on the streets after she connected with Christians online who helped her study the Bible. God’s Word came alive, bringing answers to her questions and she came to faith in Jesus. Then swift unrelenting persecution came including physical abuse from her husband, who eventually divorced her and took her children away. She lost her job, so her income disappeared. When she heard that her uncle planned to kill her, she knew she must flee. She recalls crying and asking God to come closer so she could hear his voice. She was tired of being homeless, a disgrace and shame to her family, and always in need. ‘I cannot go back to my home country. I will die. Without a visa and no one to help.’ See also