Migrant crossings to Europe by sea drop sharply amid heightened risks: IOM
Summary
The number of migrants crossing to Europe by sea dropped by 39% in early 2026 compared to last year, but more people are dying or going missing on these dangerous journeys. Most migrants flee poverty, war, or violence, and many boats come from North Africa, especially Libya. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) urges safer legal routes and international cooperation to protect migrants.Key Facts
- About 60,000 migrants reached Europe by sea in early 2026, down from 98,000 in the same period last year.
- At least 2,292 people died or went missing crossing, up from 1,999 the previous year.
- The Mediterranean and Atlantic routes are the deadliest sea paths for migrants.
- Central Mediterranean arrivals dropped by over half, but deaths rose from 844 to 996.
- Greece had fewer arrivals but more deaths, increasing from 284 to 417.
- Spain saw fewer arrivals and deaths but still reported 879 deaths or disappearances.
- Most migrants reported economic hardship, conflict, or violence as reasons for leaving.
- The European Union agreed to new rules in June to deport migrants to countries outside the EU.
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