Dozens reportedly rescued off Kent coast while crossing Channel
GuardianJun 18
At Least 12 Migrants Die Trying to Cross English Channel
Above: Migrants in May 2024 were picked up in the English Channel by the Border Force. Image copyright: Dan Kitwood/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin told reporters that at least 12 migrants died Tuesday and two are missing after their boat capsized off the coast of France while trying to cross the English Channel to the UK.
The boat, which was carrying dozens of migrants, was first spotted by a French government-operated ship, with the French Navy deployed for a search and rescue mission.
The Spin
Left narrative
The British government is to blame for this tragedy. For years, it has responded to reports of migrant deaths with calls for tougher border security, resulting in asylum seekers taking more dangerous boat journeys. Those fleeing war and persecution will continue to attempt these trips, and it's up to French and British authorities to adopt policies that prevent these disasters.
Right narrative
While terrible, these tragedies on the open seas garner too much of a percentage of media attention compared to crimes being committed by migrants flocking to the UK without regard for immigration laws or whether they'll be able to make a life for themselves. It will always be appropriate for Britain to control its borders by any means necessary.