A tiny Italian island off the coast of Africa has seen thousands of people fleeing unrest across North Africa.
More than 30,000 people this year alone have made the risky journey to Lampedusa, which is only 20 sq km in size.
Sonali’s gone there to find out what it’s like for the kids – most of whom are there without their families.

by Sonali

I’m on Lampedusa which is known for its white sandy beaches and its gorgeous turquoise waters, but over the past few months it’s been making headlines for very different reasons.

The tiny place is an Italian island, but actually is far closer to Africa, which is why so many people running away from rebellion and violence in North Africa have turned up at the island’s port.

People coming over make the crossing in rickety old fishing boats.
The journey’s about 180 miles and can take up to four days. It’s really tough.

All about Lampedusa

It’s in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea
The island is closer to Tunisia but belongs to Italy
Normally only 4,500 people live there
The island is tiny with an area of 8 sq miles
The boats are cramped and there often isn’t enough food and water for the whole trip, which is why many people don’t survive the long journey.
About 1,000 kids have arrived here from North Africa since the start of the year. While some of them come here with their families, most – nine out of 10 – are sent to Lampedusa on their own.

Imagine just how frightening that long journey would be without mum or dad.

It’s a really tough journey. The United Nations says one in 10 people trying to escape the conflict in Libya either drown or die from hunger and exhaustion during the boat crossing.

read more