European countries must provide safe routes for refugees

Ending the people smuggling trade will not be easy, but implementing safe pathways can and will undermine those seeking to exploit refugees and save lives, writes John Lannon

Having fled from war, persecution and violence, the trauma experienced in their home countries is compounded by violent and life-threatening experiences in Europe, often at the hands of police. Photo: AP/Rafael Yaghobzadeh

As Europe comes to terms with the tragic deaths of 27 people in the English Channel, it’s time for governments, including Ireland’s, to do more to provide safe routes for people in need of international protection. 

Deaths like these are predictable and preventable and can be avoided if governments work together in a timely and effective manner to share responsibility for the protection of refugees. The deaths included seven women and three children.