The images of 3 year old Aylan Kurdi’s body washing up on a Greek beach has caused many to wonder how his family could have taken such a risk: Surely there must have been a safer way? No matter what path refugees take to escape the Syrian (and Libyan) violence, there is a great deal of risk and uncertainty. Below are a set of links that should provide a glimpse into the harrowing trip refugees have to brave.
The first two articles describe the process and dangers associated with dealing with people smugglers:
The refugee challenge: can you break into Fortress Europe? – interactive http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/ng-interactive/2014/jan/refugee-choices-interactive
Syrian Journey: Choose your own escape route http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-32057601
IR Theory & Practice 