Significant Decrease in Migrant Crossings to Europe in 2026 Despite Rising Deaths

The number of migrants arriving in Europe by sea has sharply decreased since the beginning of 2026. According to a new report, approximately 60,000 migrants and refugees have reached Europe by boat so far, which represents a 39 percent decrease compared to last year.

Increase in Deaths at Sea

Despite the decrease in the number of migrants, at least 2,292 people have lost their lives or gone missing while attempting to cross the sea, which is an increase from 1,999 people during the same period last year. Many of these individuals perish in overcrowded and unsuitable boats departing from the shores of Libya.

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Report from the IOM Director-General

Amy Pope, the Director-General of the International Organization for Migration, stated: "These numbers tell two stories. Fewer people are arriving by sea in Europe compared to last year, but they are still losing their lives on this route at an alarming rate." She emphasized the need for sustainable international cooperation to save lives and combat trafficking and exploitation.

Death statistics vary based on different routes, but the Mediterranean and Atlantic sea routes are recognized as the "deadliest sea routes in the world." On the central Mediterranean route, which is the main crossing from North Africa to Italy, the number of arrivals has decreased by more than half, but deaths have increased from 844 to 996.

Greece has experienced a smaller decrease in the number of arrivals, while deaths have increased from 284 to 417. Spain has also faced a decrease in arrivals, while 879 people have lost their lives on routes leading there.

The IOM states that most individuals attempting to migrate are fleeing war and persecution. Surveys indicate that many migrants cite economic problems as the main reason for leaving their home countries.

This report comes after a migration crisis in the autonomous region of Ceuta in Spain, where over 70,000 people crossed from Morocco in just two days in July, and at least 90 people lost their lives on this route.

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