Friday, August 23, 2024
Belgrade/Sarajevo

A heartbreaking tragedy at the Drina River, on the Serbia- Bosnia and Herzegovina border, underscores the urgent need for safe regular migration pathways to prevent devastating losses and counter the perils of migrant smuggling across Western Balkans.

While our thoughts are with the victims, the missing, and their families, we remain committed to supporting the survivors and working closely with the authorities to prevent more tragedies along this route.

As the investigation and the search for the missing continue, IOM teams have been working with the authorities to support the immediate response for those who have survived.

The urgent need to expose the networks of smugglers and protect migrants in vulnerable situations, particularly women and children, demands a strong unified effort from governments, international organizations, stakeholders and communities.

Going forward in this difficult moment, we will continue to support governments to design and implement solutions for safe and regular pathways which protect and uphold international human rights standards. 

On the account of this tragic incident, the commitment of IOM missions across Western Balkans are as pressing as ever to protect those who are losing their lives in pursuit of dignified future and put an end to the threats and dangers of human trafficking and smuggling.

Signatories: 

• Laura Lungarotti, IOM Western Balkans Regional Coordinator
• Donatella Bradic, IOM Serbia Chief of Mission