Banksy, a British and world-renowned artist, recently designed and funded a rescue boat for migrants seeking safety across the Mediterranean Sea. It has aptly been named the Louise Michel after a 19th Century French anarchist. The boat was funded through Banksy’s various street art projects and displays some of his work on the exterior. It focuses on transferring the most vulnerable migrants first which leaves most still awaiting their final destinations. The vessel has recently rescued 350 migrants and has been allowed to dock in Italy.

The purpose of Louise Michel is reportedly “to uphold maritime law and rescue anyone in peril without prejudice,” and “We answer the SOS call of all those in distress, not just to save their souls – but our own.” Last week, the UN’s refugee agency put forward an urgent appeal to ensure the travelers reach safety. Medecins Sans Frontières (MSF) have reported that 100 unaccompanied minors were on board a similar boat found in the area. “Any delays could jeopardize the safety of the people on board, including the crew,” claimed by the UNHCR during their outcry for a docking location.

The lack of support has been an ongoing battle for the many migrants making the life-risking trip to reach European shores. Global nations are becoming unable to continue turning a blind eye to the crisis on the Mediterranean coasts, as key figures such as Banksy are beginning to raise the necessary media attention. The migrants have fled various atrocities and have the right to be considered, and treated as people wishing for a better life.

SUN data suggests that over 400 people are still unaccounted for and have lost their lives in the attempt to reach European shores from North Africa in 2020 alone. Over 40,000 migrants are estimated to have reached their destination via the Mediterranean Sea. There has been much outrage from Italian citizens over bringing in more migrants to their already crowded coastal towns. Italy and Malta have been criticised by MSF’s humanitarian affairs advisor for not doing more to answer the migrant cries from the seas.

The UN has counted over 43,000 migrants arriving in Europe since January. Despite a steady decline since its peak in 2015, the crew of the Louise Michel reports migrants and rescue crew still experience a lack of support. They recently tweeted for immediate assistance and received a sub-par response from European authorities. Similar rescue teams have reported extreme levels of physical distress from migrants, including dehydration and fuel burns.