> They are mostly from The Gambia - more than 2,000 miles south and west of Libya.
>The Gambia is one of the poorest countries in the world, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) says Gambians have emigrated at a higher rate per capita than any other nation in Africa in recent years.
One wears the familiar pale blue of a Manchester City football shirt, others are holding iPhones.
> There is hope among the migrants on board the Ocean Viking as we near the Italian coast, but also some traces of regret. Suma says he misses home, but that it would bring "shame" on him to return after borrowing money from loved ones for the voyage.
>"It's a disgrace, you know."
Yeah but it’s no disgrace sponging off of Europoors is it?
> The teenagers tell us they view Europe as a place of safety and stability, where they can return to school and get a good job.
> Europe is mostly an abstract idea for the migrants. Much of their knowledge is based on their favourite football teams and players.
>"I want to be a footballer. Like Ronaldo," one says. "Marcus Rashford!" another exclaims. Lots are excited to be disembarking in Italy - the country of the Serie A league, and its new champions Napoli.
Fucking niggers
> "Even if in their country there is no war or persecution, they may have some… reasons why they are recognised for some kind of protection,"
Reeeeeeeeeee