The Gambia has been dealing with the issue of irregular migration for many years, with young people risking their lives to travel to Europe in search of better opportunities. Between 2015 and 2022, more than 35,000 Gambians arrived in the European Union, with peak periods seeing around 7,000 migration attempts annually. Under former President Yahya Jammeh, many fled political repression and sought asylum in the West, but since the transition to democracy, there have been increased rejections of asylum applications. The Gambian government has been working with the EU on migration management, resulting in thousands of voluntary and involuntary returns to the Gambia.
Many Gambians, like Alagie, leave home in search of better opportunities abroad. Alagie’s journey took him across the Mediterranean to Italy and then Germany before being deported back to the Gambia. Despite the hardships he faced in Europe, he still prefers it to life in the Gambia, where high youth unemployment and economic challenges drive many to seek opportunities elsewhere. The reliance on remittances from Gambians living abroad further complicates the country’s economic situation. Alagie’s return left him with regret as he feels he couldn’t fulfill his parents’ dreams.
The allure of life abroad, often fueled by social media images, leads many Gambians to embark on dangerous migration journeys. Rohey, for example, was seduced by the glamorous posts of a friend in Italy and decided to make the journey herself. However, she faced hardship and exploitation along the way, leading her to eventually return to the Gambia. The harsh realities of life in Europe compared to the paradise she had envisioned left her disillusioned. Many returnees face challenges reintegrating into society, with some resorting to desperate measures like engaging in prostitution.
The journey to Europe is often perilous and takes years for many migrants, with Ousman Jobe recalling a grueling four-year journey across the Sahara. Facing treacherous conditions and dangers, many lose their lives along the way. Morro narrowly escaped death when the boat he was on sank off the coast of Mauritania, compelling him to return home. Despite the trauma and hardships faced on the journey, many migrants dream of a better life in Europe and are willing to risk it all to get there. However, some, like Jobe, have become advocates against irregular migration, warning others of the dangers.
Deportees returning to the Gambia face numerous challenges, including mental health issues and struggles to reintegrate into society. Reports of violence and mistreatment by European authorities have raised concerns, with reports of deportees like Buba Baldeh suffering from severe psychological distress. The Gambian government is working with international organizations to assist in reintegrating returnees through skills training and support programs. However, the mental health crisis among deportees remains a significant concern, with cases of suicide and violence highlighting the struggles they face upon their return.
Despite the risks and challenges faced by migrants returning to the Gambia, many continue to seek opportunities abroad, hoping for a better life for themselves and their families. Alagie, despite being deported back to the Gambia, is determined to try the migration journey again to improve his family’s circumstances. The allure of Europe as a place of hope and opportunity persists for many young Gambians, despite the harsh realities they may face along the way. The ongoing issue of irregular migration continues to pose challenges for both the Gambia and its citizens, highlighting the need for solutions to address the root causes of migration.
