Greek authorities have recovered the bodies of two women and rescued 39 survivors on the remote island of Farmakonisi, following what is believed to be the sinking of a migrant vessel attempting the perilous journey from Turkey to Greece.
The Hellenic Coast Guard reported that the group was discovered Monday morning on the small Dodecanese island, located near the Turkish coast. No vessel was located at the scene, and there have been no official reports of missing persons. The nationalities of those rescued have not yet been released, and details about the incident remain unclear.
This latest tragedy underscores the persistent dangers faced by migrants seeking to reach European shores. Earlier this month, at least 16 people lost their lives in similar circumstances when two inflatable boats sank—one in Turkish waters and the other in Greek waters.
Greece remains a key gateway to the European Union for people fleeing war, persecution, and economic hardship in the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia. Despite the short distance between the Turkish coast and several Greek islands, the sea route is often deadly. Overcrowded dinghies, poor vessel conditions, and unpredictable weather frequently lead to fatal accidents.
In response to ongoing migrant flows, the Greek government has intensified maritime patrols and enforcement efforts in recent years. As a result, many human smuggling networks have shifted their operations toward southern routes, using larger vessels to transport people from North Africa to southern Greece.
According to the United Nations refugee agency, more than 54,000 people entered Greece via the eastern Mediterranean route in 2024. Additionally, over 7,700 crossed the land border with Turkey. At least 125 people were reported dead or missing during the journey last year.
So far in 2025, the UNHCR reports that over 8,000 people have arrived in Greece by sea, and an additional 755 by land, between January and March 30.
The incident on Farmakonisi is a grim reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region, and the deadly risks thousands continue to face in search of safety and a better future in Europe.