The Difficulties of Fulfilling Labour’s Pledge to Combat Smuggling Gangs

In the spring of 2019, Hamid Khoshsiar, then 31, an Iranian refugee residing in Turkey for two years, chose to undertake a dangerous journey into the European Union. His journey commenced in Igneada, located in northern Turkey, where he traversed a treacherous, uneven path for half a day, navigating thick forests and thorny undergrowth towards Bulgaria. He ultimately arrived at the border. He determined that his most viable option was to swim across a small river. The water conditions were fortunately tranquil. After securing his few possessions in plastic bags, he entered the water. He recalled, “There was so much adrenaline in my blood,” adding, “The only thing that was important to me was safety. All my mind was about that: am I going to find safety or not?” He spent 20 hours before reaching safety in Bulgaria, where he currently holds refugee status. Reflecting on the journey, he stated that he might have succumbed to dehydration if a police patrol had not discovered him. Nevertheless, he considers it the most significant decision of his life. He commented, “It was worth it because I didn’t have any other option. I was so lucky.” In the last five years, an increasing number of migrants have chosen to attempt this identical route, referred to as the Eastern Mediterranean route. This path originates in Turkey, proceeds into either Bulgaria or Greece, and for