BRUSSELS, 23 August 2023 – European policymakers must take urgent action to create safe routes for migrants, following devastating reports that 18 people, including two children, were killed this week in wildfires in northern Greece, said Save the Children.

Federica Toscano, Senior Advocacy Advisor for Children on the Move at Save the Children Europe, said:

“Children continue to die – at sea and on land – as they embark on perilous journeys to escape conflict and violence in search of safety in Europe. The EU's policies of deterrence and externalisation are causing human tragedies at its borders almost daily. The latest tragedy with 18 people killed in Greek wildfire, in an area that is a crossing point for thousands of migrants trying to reach Europe, is no exception.”

“This is a stark reminder of the urgent need for the EU and Member States to prioritise safe paths for families seeking protection in Europe and find effective climate crisis solutions. No child should die because of the way Europe handles pressing challenges it faces. Safe routes save lives.”

Save the Children runs programmes in many European countries, including close to border areas and disembarkation points, focusing on emergency assistance, child protection, information and psychosocial support, training and education.

For further enquiries please contact:

• Daphnee Cook Daphnee.cook@savethechildren.org / +254 717 524 904 (in Nairobi)
• Emily Wight Emily.Wight@savethechildren.org
• Our media out of hours (BST) contact is media@savethechildren.org.uk / +44(0)7831 650409