Muddy Boots
Grande-Synthe
The Jungle of Calais has not disappeared. The forests of Grande-Synthe are now the refuge of thousands of migrants waiting for their chance to cross La Manche to the United Kingdom.
Nord-pas-de-Calais is one of the main migrating routes in Europe, just after the Mare Nostrum and the Balcans. However, all those who are stuck in that border have to face heavy weather and the silence of the French and British governments.
It is estimated that in 2020, 8,000 people crossed the English Channel in the direction of the United Kingdom. In 2021, more than 28,000, the same as in 2022. Every day, hundreds of people from the Maghreb, the Sahel, Syria or Afghanistan pass through the makeshift refugee camp of Grande-Synthe, waiting for an opportunity to cross the waters that separate France from England.
The wait for migrants is getting longer and longer not only because of weather complications, but also because of the pact between both countries to strengthen maritime controls. The solutions do not arrive and the hope for these people diminishes.
"I have my wife and daughter in Scotland," says Moussa. His expression denotes frustration and hope at the same time. From Guinea to Mali. From Mali to Niger. From Niger to Libya. From Libya to Italy. From Italy to Belgium. From Belgium to France. Six years of dangerous journey with the sole aim of being reunited with the family.
''Do not let them forget us, we are human beings''
Moussa
© Sergi Llanas Páez
