This article from Hespress reflects on the historical roots of mass migration and displacement, arguing they originate not from the sea itself, but from a lack of opportunity and dignity within homelands. It posits that migration waves begin when nations fail to accommodate the aspirations of their citizens, making the pursuit of a dignified life feel insurmountable. The sea, therefore, transforms from a simple body of water into a profound question – a desperate search for a better future. The journey, exemplified by routes from Saigon to Ceuta, is not merely geographical but represents a fundamental yearning for respect and a hopeful existence. The text frames migration not as a choice, but as a consequence of internal pressures and the diminishing space for realizing one’s potential within one's own country. Ultimately, it suggests a crisis of belonging is at the heart of the global migration phenomenon.