Tragic Migrant Death in Pas-de-Calais Amidst Ongoing English Channel Crossings

On September 28, a migrant was tragically found dead on a beach near Boulogne-sur-Mer, France, likely after an attempt to cross the English Channel to the UK. Discovered in Saint-Étienne-au-Mont, this death marks a significant moment in the ongoing crisis of migrant crossings in the area, which have seen a dramatic increase this year.

According to Boulogne-sur-Mer prosecutor Cécile Gressier, investigators are examining possible connections between this death and a recent crossing attempt at nearby Equihen-Plage, where approximately 50 migrants were rescued early that morning. Among those rescued, one woman, aged 49, required hospitalization due to hypothermia. "This incident raises the death toll to at least 27 migrants in 2023 during crossing attempts," reported AFP. Additionally, the weekend witnessed further tragedies, including the deaths of two Somali women whose bodies were recovered following a failed crossing attempt, and another migrant found dead in Gravelines days later.

Despite increased efforts by French authorities to prevent these hazardous crossings—often involving overloaded and unsafe small boats—successful attempts have soared to over 32,000 this year alone, marking a record high. This distressing situation highlights the ongoing struggle faced by migrants seeking safer and better lives in the UK, amid life-threatening conditions and perilous journeys across the channel.