‘I will die trying’: Gambian migrant deportees dream of return to Europe

People who took the ‘backway’ to EU countries and were sent home find few opportunities.

Banjul, the Gambia – Ten years ago, Alagie’s life in Banjul wasn’t easy. Still, he had both his parents, a wife, a home, and a dream of making a better life for them all in Europe.

Now the 34-year-old, who asked that his full name not be used to protect his privacy, has lost much of what he had.

Alagie left the Gambia in 2014, taking the irregular “backway” to Europe before he was forcibly returned eight years later.

“I wanted the best for my wife and future children,” he told Al Jazeera about his decision to leave, looking sadly at the wedding photo on his wall.

Although still married, he cannot afford to support his wife and their 10-month-old baby, forcing her to return to her parents’ home.