The question of massive human movements is not new. It is as old as the hills, only that we know it more because of the fastness of news and images in this era of information. Why are we so surprised by these human massive movements? Let us put a few things in perspective: Think of the history of imperialism, colonialism, slave trade, crusades, regional and international wars. The catastrophic economic decisions by the IMF, World Bank, naturally followed by the death of the welfare state and the rise of aggressive and elitist repressive political hegemonies especially in tropical countries: holding elections without democracy just to please outside donors while crashing local dissenting views that call for accountability and an end to political monarchism. The imbalances in distribution of national wealth, the out right theft of resources by a few powerful and militaristic ( men), perfectly explains why we have the crisis of refugees. Injustices cause these immense involuntary but necessary movements.
Finally, let me add that it is not just to Europe that desperate people flee to in such of freedom and a life. Pope Francis' visit to Uganda has highlighted this fact: that despite the difficulties, Ugandans have always, since decades, welcomed those fleeing war and persecution---and often forgetting their own plight. So, yes, this is a world-wide issue.
To halt the tragedy, we must change the conditions of life at home: Challenge dictators and insist on social welfare for all.