Migrant Numbers Swell in Calais 10 Years After Infamous 'Jungle' Camp Demolition

Ten years after the infamous Calais "Jungle" migrant camp was torn down, an increased number of migrants are gathering along the French coast with the stated intention of reaching Britain. The demolition of the 40-acre camp on October 24, 2016, was intended to halt the flow of illegal crossings into the UK, but observers report that the current number of migrants in Calais and nearby Dunkirk, officially around 4,000, does not account for thousands more spread along the coast.

Charities involved in supporting migrants marked the anniversary of the camp's closure with events mourning its dismantling and discussing open borders. These organizations, funded by private donations, legacies, and public funds, continue to provide assistance to migrants in temporary camps. Volunteers prepare up to 1,000 hot meals daily, distributing them to migrants waiting for opportunities to cross the English Channel. Leaflets in multiple languages offer guidance on surviving in France, seeking asylum in Britain, and contacting the British coastguard.

Reports indicate that migrants are drawn to Calais by the efforts of these charities, which offer food, water, shelter, and information about their rights. Organizations like L'Auberge des Migrants and Refugee Community Kitchen are active in the area, with some charities providing medical advice and treatment for issues such as rape, female genital mutilation, or STIs. Free dental clinics are also available at the local hospital.

Many migrants express a strong desire to reach the UK, citing perceived opportunities for education, housing, and employment, even on the black market. Some individuals have attempted to reach Britain multiple times, having previously lived in the UK, been deported, and subsequently returned to France to try again. One such individual, who had lived in London for six years, returned to Calais after being deported to Afghanistan.

During the initial demolition of the Jungle camp, a significant number of unaccompanied minors were controversially transferred to Britain. Concerns were raised at the time about the age verification of these individuals, with some media outlets questioning the claims of their youth. Parliamentary records from 2016 show that 3,000 underage migrants arrived from Europe, with a notable number from France around the time of the Jungle's closure.

Following the camp's dismantling, migrants were dispersed to resettlement centers across France. However, many reportedly found the conditions unsatisfactory, citing a lack of halal food, internet access, and adequate living standards, which led some to leave and attempt to reach Britain. The French government had promised that the migrants would not return to Calais, but Christian Salome, former head of L'Auberge des Migrants, predicted otherwise.

Despite efforts to prevent their return, Calais has once again become a significant gathering point for migrants. They are reported to be living in makeshift shelters in various locations around the port. The ongoing presence of migrants and their continued attempts to cross the Channel, whether by boat or hidden in lorries, highlight the persistent challenge of irregular migration. The article suggests that the demolition of the Jungle camp a decade ago has not deterred the flow of migrants towards Britain, with traffickers and supportive charities continuing their activities.