from Calais to Dunkirk, they dream of crossing the English Channel

At daybreak, the police fly over the Channel coast aboard a small plane. They are at the influx of the slightest trace of a crossing that is preparing, on the beaches or in the dunes. After a few minutes of flight, they spot near Dunkirk (North) a group of migrants. The police report their position, take a few shots. About thirty people seem to be waiting for something, or someone. “The goal is to challenge the passer when he is going to bring the equipment”explains a policeman. On the ground, the police take over to prevent the arrival of the boat. However, not all attempts can be stopped in time.

Most often, the French Navy lets the migrants continue on their way, and only intervenes in the event of breakdown or shipwreck. Attempts to cross increased during the summer, thanks to favorable weather conditions. On Monday August 22, nearly 1,300 people crossed the Channel, according to British authorities. The candidates are determined to reach Great Britain, but also to leave the unsanitary camps around Calais (Pas-de-Calais). According to several associations, their living conditions are deteriorating. In one square, the authorities notably placed rocks to prevent the distribution of water and food. Nearly 23,000 people have crossed the Channel since the start of the year.