Islamic Relief UK’s response to news of forty-one migrants losing their lives in a shipwreck off the Italian island of Lampedusa

In response to 41 migrants losing their lives in the Mediterranean, Islamic Relief UK said:

“The news of forty-one migrants losing their lives in a shipwreck off Italy is tragic and heart breaking. This was another avoidable disaster which are unfortunately becoming more and more common.

“Action must be taken to avoid a repeat of this awful catastrophe. Governments must immediately provide safe and legal routes for those seeking asylum. Many are desperate and traumatised as they make life threatening journeys fleeing dangerous situations.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

For any questions or to request to interview one of our spokespeople, please contact: · Jonaid Jilani: [email protected]; 07872 403534;

About Islamic Relief

Islamic Relief is a faith-inspired, development and humanitarian agency working to transform and save the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in over 40 countries. Islamic Relief assists people according to need and does not discriminate in any way.

Set up in Birmingham in 1984 by a group of volunteers, we have assisted over 117 million people all over the world. We’re saving lives and empowering people to lift themselves out of poverty in over 40 countries – from Bangladesh to Bosnia, Pakistan to Palestine, Kenya to Kosovo. Islamic Relief is on the ground in some of the world’s most dangerous and difficult places – including Syria and Yemen – strengthening the most marginalised communities to withstand conflict and natural disasters and to build a brighter future. We also support vulnerable people in the UK in partnership with local charities and organisations.