In Pictures

In pictures: African migrants in Algeria

A growing number of sub-Saharan Africans are using Algeria as a stopping point on their way to Europe.

Martial, 38 years old, had a long journey with his wife across the desert from Ivory Coast to Algiers.

By Mohamed Kaouche

For the past three years, the number of immigrants travelling from sub-Saharan Africa to Algeria has risen dramatically. Some are fleeing war and ethnic conflict in their home countries; others seek better economic conditions.

Most are in Algeria as a stopping point on their way to Europe.

On International Migrants Day, learn about these migrants’ stories, hopes and fears as they make their way towards Europe.

He says he would rather stay in Algeria than in his home country because Europe is closer.

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Yasmine, who is only one year old, was born in Algeria.

Martial(***)s main income during what he considers his "temporary stay in Algiers" comes from teaching art courses to young Algerians.

Martial has heard that Europe is relatively easy for refugees to integrate, and has better living conditions.

Jakie says he is pessimistic about his stay in Algeria, but is satisfied that he managed to complete half of his journey to Europe.

Jakie(***)s ultimate goal is to reach Europe.

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Jakie admits he would have preferred to stay in his homeland if there were no conflict there.

Jakie found shelter at a construction site that he considers a temporary home.

A young asylum seeker stands in front of his temporary home.

Even the youngest dream of a better life in Europe.

Six-year-old Deborah and her mother in their temporary home.

According to these refugees, their countries are more dangerous than their journey across the desert or their next journey across the sea.