Rescuing Lives in the Mediterranean: The Surprising Team Behind the Efforts

In the heart of the Mediterranean, a unique mission is underway aboard the MS Aquarius. The boat, chartered by medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and French NGO SOS Mediterranée, has been a beacon of hope since joining the international search and rescue operation off Libya in February.

At the helm is Alexander Moroz, a 45-year-old Belarusian with a dry sense of humour. Despite a lack of information about his organisation, Moroz feels he is in the right place, doing something good. He receives instructions from Italy's coastguard and directs operations, steering the vessel towards the distressed boats carrying those in need.

The MS Aquarius's crew is a diverse group, with most of the MSF medical team having no prior experience on a boat before joining. Erna Rijnierse, a Dutch doctor who has been working with MSF for a decade, describes the work as unique. The team, composed of a doctor, midwife, two nurses, and two technicians, prepares to take care of the rescued migrants on board.

The rescues are not without emotion. Ebenezer Tandot, a Ghanaian crew member, recalls the impact of rescuing men in a state of shock or paralysed by hypothermia. The relief at seeing them begin to come round and recover is a moment he will never forget. Tandot, who has long worked around North Sea oil platforms, is tasked with guiding the first lifeboat to be launched.

SOS Mediterranée volunteers, including merchant seamen, rotate the watch on the deck. Antoine Laurent, a 25-year-old merchant seaman, stated that working for oneself is not what makes one proud in this life. The boat is now filled with life jackets, blankets, nutrition packs, and bottles of water, ready to provide comfort to those in need.

Since joining the operation, the MS Aquarius has safely delivered approximately 1,500 migrants to Italian ports. As the sun sets on another day, the vessel continues its mission, a testament to the power of humanitarian efforts in the face of adversity. The presence of rescue boats may be a topic of debate, but for Moroz and his crew, the question is simple: How many more would die if they were not present?