Beware of the Physical Safety Risks Involved with Irregular Journeys

📣This message is shared though the UNHCR WhatsApp communication📣

  • Irregular movements by sea usually take place in overcrowded and unsafe boats. In the last 2 years, over 250 individuals, including children, went missing or died while attempting to leave Lebanon by sea. Several boats needed to be rescued at sea, including after engine failures or running out of fuel. Many others were stopped or intercepted at sea by authorities, and later detained or returned to Lebanon against their will and deported to their country of origin.
  • If you are considering irregular movement by land, know that getting a visa to a country bordering the EU and reaching that country does not guarantee access to the EU. EU countries require specific and separate visas to enter. Without one, you may be stuck without safe options. If you get stranded somewhere, help or rescue may be impossible!

What you are about to watch, is based on the personal testimonies of a family that attempted an irregular sea journey:

For more information on risks associated with irregular journeys by sea or land, please visit the Risks of Irregular Travel on the UNHCR Lebanon HELP website.

If you are thinking of embarking on an irregular journey, consider reaching out to UNHCR for confidential counseling at 📞04726111. Remember that all services and assistance by UNHCR and its partners are free of charge.