Investigations

On a large scale, organised criminal networks are bringing vulnerable (trans) women from Latin America to Belgium and the Netherlands. This is according to research by Lost in Europe. The phenomenon plays out across Europe, according to Belgian investigative authorities. It is a multi-million dollar business. 

Within the last decade, tens of thousands of child migrants have vanished without a trace in Europe. Our investigation, conducted in 2021, uncovers the shocking disappearance of at least 18,000 unaccompanied child migrants between 2018 and 2020, raising serious concerns about the protection provided by European countries. Discover the inconsistencies and gaps in data that obscure the true extent of this crisis.

Over the past decade, Greek, Spanish, and Italian border guards have increasingly targeted the drivers of migrant boats, seeking to assign blame for "illegal" migration. Our investigation exposes the alarming arrests of thousands of individuals, some coerced at gunpoint, including unaccompanied minors. Discover the harsh reality faced by those caught in this crossfire of border control.

Explore the dark world of Vietnamese child migrants trafficked into the UK through an intricate network spanning multiple countries. Our in-depth research across The Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium uncovers the uncomfortable truth behind their disappearances from asylum shelters, highlighting their exploitation as forced labourers in cannabis farms and nail salons.

Journey alongside us as we document the migration routes of unaccompanied child migrants within Europe. Our investigation unveils the abuse and violence they endure during their arduous journeys. Gain insight into these vulnerable children's grim reality, falling prey to criminal gangs seeking to exploit their vulnerability.

Our team of investigative journalists meticulously analyses migration policies within the EU, revealing the gaps in the asylum process that result in the disappearance of numerous child migrants. Furthermore, we delve into the mechanisms that leave these children outside the protective asylum system, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safeguards and support.

Witness the heartbreaking plight of thousands of Nigerian women and girls trafficked into forced sex slavery in Europe. Our investigation exposes the grim reality faced by victims lured from Edo state with false promises, only to find themselves trapped in slave-like conditions in cities like Palermo. In addition, we examine the exponential rise in trafficking cases since the 'migrant crisis' of 2015.

At the internal borders of the EU, countless unaccompanied child migrants endure violence, abuse, and forced returns to unsafe environments. Our investigation scrutinises the disturbing practice of pushbacks, unveiling the cycle of brutality these vulnerable children face. Through freedom of information requests to 16 EU member states, we expose the harsh reality, particularly at borders like the Italian-French border.

Delve into the rarely explored topic of mental health issues and suicide attempts among migrants and refugees. Our research focuses on unaccompanied migrants, refugee children, and young people, shedding light on this pressing issue. We strive to better understand this critical issue through in-depth conversations with mentors, paediatricians, psychologists, social workers, and the affected individuals.