Mauritania has become a critical buffer for Europe, facing a massive influx of migrants attempting to reach the Canary Islands through the Atlantic route. Lemine Katthary, president of the Atlas-Sahel Observatory, revealed that over a million irregular migrants are in the country, many of whom aim to reach Europe. Mauritania, with its extensive borders, struggles to manage this crisis amid increasing pressures from organized crime groups.
The rise in migrant numbers is a result of coordinated efforts by criminal networks operating in the Sahel and sub-Saharan Africa, targeting Mauritania’s coast as a gateway to Europe. These groups exploit the vulnerabilities of migrants from diverse countries, including Pakistan, Syria, and India, alongside those from African nations, by facilitating their dangerous sea crossings.
Mauritania, already burdened with around 1.5 million migrants, faces significant challenges. The government has implemented strict laws to combat human trafficking and illegal immigration, but the strain on resources remains immense. Katthary warns that without prompt action, the migrant influx could destabilize not only Mauritania but also European countries, especially Spain and its Canary Islands.
Migrants, often lured by false promises from traffickers, face months of uncertainty in Mauritania as they struggle to gather enough money for the perilous journey. The country’s economy, forecasted to grow by 15% in 2025, is under pressure, and Mauritanian society is witnessing the rise of new problems, including drug use linked to the migrant crisis.
The Atlas-Sahel Observatory is working to raise awareness among both Mauritanians and migrants about the dangers of illegal immigration and the deceptive practices of human trafficking networks. Katthary emphasizes the need for collective efforts to tackle this growing problem before it spirals into a larger disaster.