Why did people cross the the Mediterranean?

Over 400, 000 people have crossed the Mediterranean during 2015, undertaking unthinkable journeys from countries like Syria, that have been torn apart by war and persecution. These families are fleeing for their lives, risking the treacherous sea and land crossings.

August usually finds Europe’s politicians bronzing on the beach or lacing up their walking boots. But for the past few weeks they have been huddling, scheming and debating how to give their floundering European Union a fresh lease of life. " Citizens will only accept the EU if it makes it possible for them to prosper," said Angela Merkel, Germany’s chancellor, during a visit to Warsaw last week.