Desperate Journeys: Refugees and Migrants entering and crossing Europe via the Mediterranean and Western Balkans routes

This document stresses upon the continuing need of individuals in need of international protection to find safety in Europe and talks about the three primary routes used by the refugees and migrants to enter European Union. Further, it highlights cases of abuse and violence by smugglers and other criminal networks which continued to take place throughout the region as well as reports of incidents of violence and push-backs by state authorities at several borders.