A migrant boat carrying approximately 35 people from Libya capsized in the central Mediterranean, leaving one confirmed dead and at least two dozen missing, according to UNICEF officials. The incident underscores the persistent dangers faced by migrants attempting the perilous crossing to Europe.
LAMPEDUSA, Italy — October 19, 2025 — A small fiberglass boat carrying around 35 migrants from Al Khums, Libya, capsized after two days at sea in the central Mediterranean, near Italy’s Lampedusa island. UNICEF’s Country Coordinator for Italy confirmed the tragedy, reporting that 11 survivors were rescued, including four unaccompanied children.
The body of a pregnant woman was recovered, while the remaining passengers remain unaccounted for. Italian authorities have launched search and rescue operations, though hopes are fading for those still missing.
A Recurring Tragedy
This latest shipwreck adds to the mounting toll of migrant deaths in the Mediterranean. More than 32,000 migrants have died attempting the crossing since 2014, with children accounting for a significant portion of fatalities.
The incident has reignited criticism of European migration policies, particularly the 2017 Italy–Libya agreement, which funds and trains the Libyan coastguard to intercept migrant vessels. Rights groups argue the deal contributes to unsafe returns and exposes migrants to abuse in Libyan detention centers.
Political and Humanitarian Response
In Rome, hundreds of activists and migrants protested the renewal of the Libya deal, calling for safer migration routes and more humane policies. “In the central Mediterranean, there is a line called the line of death,” said one activist, highlighting the dangers migrants face both in Libya and at sea.
UNICEF has called for coordinated search and rescue operations, safe disembarkation protocols, and community-based reception systems to protect vulnerable children and families.
Ongoing Search
As of Sunday evening, Italian authorities continue to search for the missing passengers. The survivors have been transported to Lampedusa for medical care and processing.
