CurrentReport Blog The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament raised concerns on Wednesday over the growing trend of youth migration from the subregion to Europe and other developed nations. Speaking at the 2024 First Ordinary Session of the parliament in Abuja, ECOWAS Parliament Speaker Memounatou Ibrahima highlighted the urgent need to address this issue.
The Japa Syndrome: A Growing Crisis
The phenomenon, commonly referred to as the ‘Japa Syndrome’ in Nigeria, describes the increasing number of skilled young Africans seeking better opportunities abroad, often through irregular and dangerous means. Ibrahima emphasized the pressing need for strategies to curb this exodus, pointing out the severe risks involved in these perilous journeys.
“Youths mostly emigrate through irregular means,” Ibrahima stated. “We must adopt strategies to halt this dangerous trend in our region.”
Strategies for Retaining Talent
In her address, Ibrahima urged Members of Parliament to propose and implement initiatives aimed at investing in the skills and capacities of West African youth. The goal is to harness their potential for the benefit of the subregion, thereby reducing the incentive to seek opportunities elsewhere.
The Grim Reality of Irregular Migration
Teresa Boteli, Policy and Liaison Officer at the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), presented a grim picture of the realities faced by African youth who embark on these dangerous journeys. According to Boteli, these migrations expose young people to severe risks, including human trafficking, exploitation, and even death. The IOM reported an estimated 5,000 migrant deaths in 2023 alone.
Boteli noted, “While migrants contribute to cultural exchange and diversity, they also face significant challenges in terms of integration, discrimination, and legal hurdles in their destination countries.”
Alarming Statistics
The IOM’s 2023 report revealed that approximately 300,000 West African migrants attempt the perilous routes through the Sahara Desert and across the Mediterranean Sea each year. This staggering number underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the root causes of irregular migration and provide viable alternatives for the region’s youth.
Call to Action
The ECOWAS Parliament’s session concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to collaborate on creating sustainable solutions. Investing in youth development, enhancing job opportunities, and improving living conditions in West African countries are pivotal steps towards reversing this trend.
By addressing the underlying issues driving irregular migration, ECOWAS aims to create a more stable and prosperous future for its youth, ensuring that their talents and skills contribute to the growth and development of the subregion rather than being lost to other nations.
