According to a written statement by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the Central Mediterranean continues to be one of the most dangerous migration routes.

Since the beginning of the year, the number of children crossing the Central Mediterranean and reaching Italy without their parents or relatives has increased by 60 percent to 11,600 compared to the same period last year.

In addition, at least 990 people, including children, died or disappeared on this route between June and August. This number tripled compared to 334 people who died or went missing in the same period last year.

It is stated that this figure may be even higher as some boat accidents are not recorded.

"The Mediterranean has become a graveyard for children and their future"

Regina De Dominicis, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, said: "The Mediterranean has become a graveyard for children and their future. The increase in the number of children seeking asylum and safety is the result of policy choices and a corrupt migration system."