Personal stories

For Shrazi, a Pakistani migrant in Libya, escape is the only option

Although thousands of migrants have arrived successfully in Europe on makeshift boats from Libya and Turkey, not all attempts are successful. One Pakistani migrant recalls his tragic journey in the Mediterranean Sea, the dangers in Libya and his "small dreams" for the future.

'Europe is not what you expect it to be'

Pakistani migrant Shahid Ali left his studies for a dream of a better life in Europe only to find out that the continent was not what he expected it to be. Now back in Pakistan and trying to put his life back on track, Shahid is clear about one thing - it's not worth it.

'Christian refugees face the same problems as anybody else'

Syrian national Nabil Jozeph Abou Hamad came to Germany in 2015 with the aim of building a new life here. As the young war refugee finds himself engulfed in dealing with logistical, legal and social problems, none of his plans for professional and personal development have materialized.

From Afghan refugee to British politician

Peymana Assad, whose parents came to the UK as refugees 25 years ago, is playing an active role in British politics. In an interview with DW, she talks about her political activities and far-right extremism in Britain.

Gambian asylum seeker in Germany works to build cultural bridges

Yahya, a former school teacher, fled to Europe after facing political persecution in The Gambia. Now living in Germany, he told InfoMigrants his story and shared his aspirations of becoming a leader in the Germany's Gambian community.

A Gambian refugee in Germany with a passion for integration

When Seedy Saidykhan came to Germany as a refugee in 2016, he knew he wanted to make things work. Despite many obstacles, the 20-year old has come a long way. He founded an informative website for migrants and is now an outspoken supporter of integration.

Malian refugee Soumaila seeks future in Italy as a lawyer

Soumaila was forced to flee Mali due to his work in an opposition party. He first fled to Algeria and then Italy, experiencing the tragic situation of Libya in between. Now he wants to build a future in Italy as a lawyer.

After three years in Germany, an Iraqi refugee returns to his country

After staying three years in Germany, and having experienced tough circumstances in his home country, an Iraqi refugee has made the decision to return. What's his reasoning behind the decision?

How a volunteer medic rescued a pregnant woman and her family in the Alps

Since last December, Benoît Ducos, a trained member of the ski patrol who provides emergency medical and rescue services in the Alps, has been volunteering his services to help migrants stranded in the mountains. Despite snow and freezing temperatures, migrants have been traversing treacherous mountain passes to cross from Italy into France. Ducos told InfoMigrants about how he rescued a woman who was eight and a half months pregnant and her family.

Abo's story, a tale of death and survival in Sabratha

Abo watched his mother being killed by members of a gang known as 'Asma Boys' in Sabratha, Libya, his father Mammi said. Abo and his father, who are migrants from Sierra Leone, have been detained at the Gharyian Center for the past four months after they reported her death to the police.

Meet the unaccompanied minor who became a catwalk model in Italy

At the age of fifteen, Ismail Drammeh left home in Gambia and set out on a long journey over land and sea. He ended up in Italy and eventually found work as a model. He told InfoMigrants about this surprising journey.

Amanuel, deaf-mute Eritrean artist's hopes in Italy

Amanuel, a deaf and mute artist from Eritrea, is among 150 refugees evacuated from Libya by UNHCR.