The Transformation of Kárász Farm: A Year in Review
Just a year ago, the Kárász farm near Horgos, located on Hungary’s southern border, served as a temporary refuge for hundreds of migrants and refugees. This once-bustling facility was a critical stop for those crossing the border illegally, providing shelter as they prepared to navigate through the daunting barbed wire fences that marked the frontier. Today, however, the scene is starkly different. The remnants of this makeshift community have been reduced to discarded energy drink cans and the forgotten remains of tents, which hint at the lives that once filled this space.
The farm’s roof has now caved in, with the protective nylon sheeting that once covered the windows torn and tattered, leaving the structure vulnerable to the elements. Weeds have overtaken the area, further symbolizing the abandonment of what was once a hub of activity. Over the past year, Serbian authorities have systematically cleared the farm, actively relocating migrants from the vicinity to designated camps in towns such as Kikinda and Preševo.
A local resident, Martha, shared her observations with Euronews, noting that just a month ago, Serbian law enforcement maintained a visible presence in the main square. They would board anyone found without proper documentation onto buses, transporting them away from the area. This initiative was part of a broader effort to manage the influx of migrants and restore order to the community.
Another local, László, recounted his experiences with rising tensions in the area. He claims to have witnessed multiple incidents of violence, including a particularly alarming episode where migrants engaged in gunfire amongst themselves. This shooting erupted at the Kárász farm and persisted until Serbian police arrived on the scene. In the wake of these events, the authorities in Belgrade made the decisive choice to dismantle the makeshift camp, marking the end of an era.
For more insights into this evolving situation, be sure to watch the Euronews report featured in the player above.