Nowadays, it has become increasingly common for migrants to embark on boat journeys to neighboring countries and even other continents in search of a better life. The harrowing experiences these travelers endure, particularly women and children, are difficult to fathom. Through social and mainstream media, we have witnessed the horrors that often accompany these trips, and it has become clear that the destinations may not live up to the expectations of those who embark on them. Yet, people continue to make this choice. Why?
One recurring observation I have made is that many individuals believe they are somehow exempt from the challenges faced by others. They hold onto the belief that their circumstances will be different and therefore take the chance. Despite witnessing the misery these journeys have inflicted on others, they somehow maintain the hope that their experience will be unique.
I understand the desire not to be discouraged by the failures of others, but this perspective only holds true when the likelihood of success outweighs the probability of failure. Moreover, it applies in situations where the consequences of failure do not entail loss of life or severe physical harm. Why would anyone willingly pursue a path that has proven to result in serious negative consequences, with a high probability at that?
I do not wish to pass judgment, but I have always believed that those who embark on these arduous journeys for economic reasons would not endure the same level of suffering if they remained in their home countries. Additionally, if they were willing to commit to a comparable amount of hardship and toil in their own nations, I am confident they would be rewarded with a level of success they could not attain by traveling to neighboring countries or beyond. This is merely my opinion.
However, one thing remains evident: the torturous trips to Europe are in no way justified by the pain and misery they inflict upon these illegal migrants. Moreover, do these travelers immediately receive asylum rights and work opportunities upon reaching the shores of Europe? No!
The process of obtaining the right to work and becoming a legal immigrant often exceeds expectations in terms of time. Furthermore, even when individuals do achieve legal immigrant status, the jobs they secure rarely provide the living conditions they envisioned when they initially left their home countries. While it is true that some individuals do succeed in realizing their dreams, please understand that I am not referring to those fleeing war and conflict. I am specifically addressing those who undertake illegal travel for economic reasons.
In a country where individuals capable of working should not face starvation or resort to begging for sustenance, there is much work to be done. Especially for those living in urban areas such as Addis, I can assert with absolute certainty that individuals who possess the ability and willingness to work should not find it difficult to afford food. While they may struggle to secure shelter, clothing, and other basic needs, access to food should not be an insurmountable challenge.
Returning to the topic of illegal migrants, let us not delude ourselves into believing we are exempt from the hardships experienced by others. What has befallen others is far more likely to befall us as well. It is wiser to seek avenues for comparable suffering, striving, and hard work within our own countries rather than opting for journeys destined for misery.
