Turkish coast guard rescues 81 migrants pushed back by Greek authorities

The stranded migrants, discovered aboard rubber boats near the coastal areas of Balıkesir and Muğla in western Türkiye, were swiftly located, prompting an immediate response from the Turkish Coast Guard. Their primary objective was to ensure the safety and well-being of the migrants affected by the pushback.

After the successful rescue, the migrants were transported to the provincial migration office, where they will receive further assistance and support. This incident highlights Türkiye's significant role in managing migration due to its strategic geographical location between Europe and Asia. The country shoulders responsibilities associated with the origin, transit, and destination of migrants.

Türkiye has been facing an increasing influx of migrants seeking refuge, partly driven by recent events in the region. Currently, the country hosts approximately 4 million refugees and asylum-seekers, with over 3.7 million Syrians benefitting from temporary protection. However, the large number of migrants has strained Türkiye's resources and infrastructure, requiring extensive efforts from the government and various organizations to effectively address their needs.

The Turkish Coast Guard's dedication to maritime security and preventing irregular migration deserves recognition. In 2022 alone, their proactive measures resulted in intercepting a significant number of irregular migrants, totaling 285,027 compared to 162,000 in the previous year. These efforts underscore Türkiye's commitment to border control and the well-being of migrants, despite the mounting challenges they face.

This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the complex dynamics surrounding migration in the region and emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in addressing this pressing issue. Despite the strain it places on the country, Türkiye continues to play a vital role in providing assistance and support to those seeking refuge. The successful rescue by the Turkish Coast Guard highlights their unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of migrants in distress at sea, further demonstrating Türkiye's ongoing efforts to effectively manage migration. (ILKHA)