Since 2014, tragically, 24,776 people have lost their lives or gone missing while attempting the perilous journey across the Mediterranean from the coasts of North Africa and Turkey in search of safety in Europe. These brave individuals embark on an extremely dangerous route in the hope of a better life for themselves and often for the family members they leave behind.
Europe is closing its borders, building walls, and leaving civilian rescue boats with refugees stranded at sea for weeks under inhumane conditions. Coastal countries in Europe, such as Italy, refuse to allow these ships to dock. Questionable repatriation agreements with third countries are being negotiated.
Germany is actively trying to hinder civilian sea rescue operations. The Ministry of Transport is once again planning a ship safety regulation that negatively impacts NGOs and, consequently, the rescue missions in the Mediterranean for people seeking protection.
jaquard gewebe
2,00 m x 1,30 m
Article 3: Everyone has the right to life, liberty, and security of person.
Article 7: All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection of the law. All are entitled to equal protection against any discrimination in violation of this Declaration and against any incitement to such discrimination.
Article 9: No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention, or exile.
Article 8: Everyone has the right to an effective remedy by the competent national tribunals for acts violating the fundamental rights granted him by the constitution or by law.
Article 22: Everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security and is entitled to realization, through national effort and international co-operation and in accordance with the organization and resources of each State, of the economic, social and cultural rights indispensable for his dignity and the free development of his personality.
With this work, I protest against European ignorance towards human rights and the resulting deaths of desperate people in the Mediterranean. I aim to raise awareness in our society about those seeking refuge from war, violence, and political persecution.
In developing the pattern for a Jacquard fabric, I focus on the drowning of refugees in the Mediterranean, using the powerful symbolism of “Drowning Hands.” The continuous repetition of sinking hands on the textile highlights the large number of missing persons, making them visible. The roaring, black-and-white sea in the background starkly emphasizes that there are only two possibilities: arrival or death. Ultimately, the bluish mist spreads across the entire fabric, blowing away the hope for justice and freedom.
2022
©gifty amoateng
