Spain has recorded the highest number of migrants arriving by boat, with over 60,000 reaching its shores in 2024. The Canary Islands have always been the main destination, but now a new hotspot is appearing—the popular tourist island of Mallorca.
The rising number of arrivals has led to more discussions about Spain’s migration policies and border security. Many factors are causing this increase, including problems in migrants’ home countries and the use of dangerous sea routes across the Mediterranean and Atlantic.
Authorities and aid groups are struggling to handle the growing numbers, as shelters in the Canary Islands and Mallorca are reaching their limits. The Spanish government has promised to strengthen border controls while also working with other European countries to deal with the root causes of migration.
Even with these challenges, many migrants continue to risk their lives in search of better opportunities, showing the ongoing humanitarian and political issues Spain and the European Union are facing.