Summary
Refugees from countries like Afghanistan, Egypt, and Morocco are trying to reach the European Union but face problems as they travel through Bosnia and Croatia. They report being physically assaulted and forcibly returned to Bosnia by Croatian authorities, which international law considers illegal. Many endure dangerous journeys and repeated attempts to cross the border.
Key Facts
- Refugees aim to reach EU countries but are temporarily in Bosnia near the Croatian border.
- Croatia, an EU member, is accused of illegally pushing back migrants to Bosnia.
- Refugees report being assaulted and robbed by Croatian authorities.
- Bosnia is not part of the EU, complicating asylum processes for migrants.
- Dangerous routes involve crossing icy rivers and mountains.
- Migrants often make multiple attempts to cross the border, frequently ending in failure.
- At least 22 migrants went missing along the western Balkans route in 2025.
