A report highlights that children and babies crossing from northern France to the UK are subject to extreme violence, such as teargassing and rubber bullets. Despite significant UK government funding, interventions by French authorities have led to increased dangers. 2024 was marked as the deadliest year with 15 child deaths during crossings, more than in the previous four years combined. Unaccompanied children, particularly those from Sudan, face dire risks, including asphyxiation and violence while trying to reach safety. The overall situation at the UK-France border is increasingly perilous for vulnerable individuals.
Children and babies traveling to the UK on small boats from northern France have faced violent tactics including teargas, rubber bullets, and knife slashing of dinghies.
The report from Project Play indicates that policies funded by the UK government have increased danger, leading to a higher death toll among those attempting crossings.
Data shows that 2024 was the worst year for child and adult deaths during crossings, with at least 15 children dying, marking a grave increase in fatalities.
Approximately 879 unaccompanied children were encountered by the French Red Cross, particularly vulnerable children fleeing conflicts like that in Sudan.
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