We have just returned from an eye-opening, and at times emotionally exhausting, trip filming in Lesbos. Over the coming weeks, we will edit the material, share the stories of the people we encountered, and post updates on the progress of our film.
We met some incredible people. Firstly, there were the refugees themselves. Each person’s story was unique: some travelled as whole families, some alone; some were rich, some were poor. But there were also common themes. Homes destroyed, jobs gone, friends and loved ones lost. There was nothing left for them in the country they called home – their only choice was to leave – many thought they would never return.
Secondly, we met the people helping the refugees. Their selflessness, dedication and determination is inspiring, and amidst the horrific stories of countries torn apart by war, the compassion of the volunteers shines bright. They see the refugees for what they are – fellow humans.
As we filmed the situation on Lesvos, we heard news from across Europe – 71 refugees die in a truck in Austria; Macedonia shuts its border; refugees drown off the Italian coast; train stations overwhelmed in Hungary – and we realised that what was unfolding in front of our camera in Greece was a microcosm of events across Europe. A continent in crisis. Individuals and charities did their very best to help, but governments were falling short – and people were dying as a result.
One thing lost in all this are the faces at the heart of the stories. Seeing the situation first hand has helped us to understand why people are so desperate to sacrifice their homes and risk their lives. We hope that our film – and this website – will help to communicate the humanity and emotions behind the news reports. We want to shed light on how decisions being made by politicians across Europe directly affect the lives of individuals across our borders.
My Journey to Europe 