kidnapping

Switzerland: Eritrean kids are reunited with their mother in Europe after eight years of separation | Source: Screenshot UNHCR /Tarik Argaz

Switzerland
Ethiopia
Eritrea

Tears of sadness and joy: The difficult task of reuniting parents and children on Europe’s migration routes

More and more unaccompanied and separated children are trying to join their parents in Europe. But the laws and the criteria for family reunification are getting tougher in many countries, the International Social Services Switzerland (ISS) says.

Migrants rely on smugglers to cross the desert. Many can expect to be kidnapped and even tortured before their journey is over.

Libya

No choice: Migrants kidnapped for ransom

'Travel now, pay later' schemes offered by smugglers seem to be increasing the risks to migrants and refugees, especially in parts of Africa. One of the dangers is being kidnapped for ransom, a business that thrives in lawless regions and traps migrants with no way out.