An unprecedented number of people escaping conflict and poverty have migrated from Asia and Africa towards Europe in recent years. A report from the UN High Commissioner for Refugees estimated that in 2016 alone around 362 376 people crossed the Mediterranean Sea, risking their lives to reach Europe. These new arrivals were in addition to more than 1 million refugees and migrants who had crossed the Mediterranean Sea on makeshift boats in 2015. Because of their geographical location, Greece and Italy have been the countries facing a continuous influx of migrants, mainly people aiming to move to northern European nations.