TUNIS, Jan 2 (Reuters) - A devastating start to the New Year unfolded as Tunisia's coast guard recovered the bodies of 27 African migrants after two boats sank off the coast near Sfax, a known departure point for those attempting to reach Europe. The National Guard confirmed that among the victims were both women and children, reflecting the perilous nature of these journeys. According to an official who spoke with Al Jazeera, the boats had set sail on the night of December 31, carrying individuals primarily from sub-Saharan African countries.

On January 2, the same day as the recovery, the coast guard reported that 83 survivors were rescued, with some requiring immediate medical assistance. Tragically, the national guard confirmed a baby was among the deceased. The coast guard has since handed over the bodies for forensic examination, while search efforts for the missing continue. The risks associated with these crossings are underscored by the International Organization for Migration's alarming statistic that around 24,500 individuals have disappeared or lost their lives in the central Mediterranean since 2014.

In the backdrop of this tragedy, Tunisia is grappling with an escalating migration crisis, now considered a major departure point for migrants aiming for a better life in Europe, overtaking Libya. Last month, Tunisia’s coast guard found approximately 30 bodies in two separate incidents, further illustrating the deadly nature of these attempts. The Reuters report highlighted that these incidents are part of a larger trend where the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights reported between 600 and 700 people were killed or missing in 2024 alone.

The European Union has attempted to address this crisis with a agreement worth €255 million to bolster Tunisia’s capacity to prevent maritime departures. However, human rights organizations remain concerned about the implications of such agreements, noting ongoing challenges regarding the treatment of vulnerable migrants in Tunisia.