The central Mediterranean Sea is a place of contrasts. The civil rescue fleet and the Italian coastguard race against the odds to save lives, while Libyan militias intercept and return people to suffering and human trafficking.

Between Europe and Africa, Italian laws override international maritime law. Human rights no longer apply to all. They have become privileges. Every day, when the sea is calm enough, people — individuals — risk the dangerous journey across the central Mediterranean, carrying hope for a better future. Dreams collide with reality.