Thousands of African migrants are becoming stranded in Yemen after making dangerous journeys across the Gulf of Aden in search of opportunities in Gulf countries.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) says migrants face growing humanitarian risks after arriving in Yemen.
Many travel from the Horn of Africa and hope to continue through Yemen towards Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states. However, tighter border controls have left some unable to continue their journeys.
African migrants face dangerous journey
Every year, thousands of people cross from the Horn of Africa to Yemen by sea.
Many come from Ethiopia and Somalia.
However, reaching Yemen does not mean the journey is over.
Some migrants become trapped in the country because they cannot cross into Saudi Arabia. Others are unable to return home.
One Ethiopian migrant said tighter security had prevented him from crossing the border. He said migrants were sleeping outdoors and searching for food on the streets.
IOM warns of abuse and trafficking
The IOM says migrants in Yemen face serious dangers.
These include human trafficking, exploitation, detention, violence and other forms of abuse.
Many migrants also depend on smuggling networks to continue their journeys. According to the IOM, this can expose them to further risks even after they cross international borders.
Yemen itself has faced years of conflict and a severe humanitarian crisis.
As a result, resources available to migrants and local communities are already under heavy pressure.
Up to 200,000 migrants reach Yemen each year
Between 100,000 and 200,000 migrants arrive in Yemen each year, according to the report.
At the same time, around half of Yemen’s population needs humanitarian assistance.
The situation has left many African migrants caught between two difficult choices.
They cannot continue their journey towards Gulf countries, while returning home can also be difficult.
With humanitarian supplies under pressure, the IOM warns that their situation is becoming increasingly serious.