Modeling the behavior of smuggling networks in Turkey and northern Africa via refugee influx analysis for better Search & Rescue readiness

Abstract

During the last two years, hundreds of thousands of refugees have traveled across the Mediterranean Sea, in perilous conditions and unsafe boats, resulting in thousands of dead and missing, despite the best rescue efforts from both sides. Data analysis and statistics may have an answer for the challenging task of predicting the flows of incoming boats and assisting in the prompt allocation of Search & Rescue (SAR) resources at the frontlines.