The West African Illegal Migrant Experience in Transit and across the Mediterranean Sea, 2015–2020

Abstract

Abstract International migration is regarded as one of the major challenges facing regions, nations and continents around the globe. This study aims to describe the lived experiences of undocumented West African migrants (WAM) along their journey to Europe, transiting through North African countries and crossing the Mediterranean Sea by boat. The study adopts a phenomenological research approach, using Google News articles and interviews as the data sources to explore undocumented migrant experiences, and thematic analysis. The results show that the journey is contextualised by perspectives of extortion, slavery and life-threatening incidents. Furthermore, the findings reveal experiences of torture, abuse and violence in the form of beatings, burning, gang-rape, forced labour and imprisonment. The article provides the first insight into the lived experiences of WAM on the Mediterranean routes in context. It will be valuable to migration authorities, academics and practitioners in enhancing policy formulation and implementation.