On Tuesday, more than 500 migrants crossed the English Channel in small boats, according to the latest figures. This brings the total number of migrants who have made the perilous journey across the Channel to 19,820 so far in 2024. On that day alone, 526 migrants arrived on eight boats, marking the first arrivals since August 19, after a stretch of windy weather had temporarily halted crossings.
A Home Office spokesperson expressed concern over these dangerous crossings, stating, “We all want to see an end to dangerous small boat crossings, which are undermining border security and putting lives at risk.” The number of people crossing the Channel this year is slightly higher than at the same point in 2023, with only a 0.1% increase from last year’s 19,801 crossings. However, it is 21% lower than the number recorded in 2022, which was 25,065.
Among the 526 migrants who crossed on Tuesday were men, women, and children, many of whom were seen wearing life jackets and blankets for protection against the cold and treacherous journey. The English Channel, one of the world’s most dangerous and busiest shipping lanes, poses significant risks to those attempting to reach the UK in small, overcrowded boats.
Many of the migrants making this journey come from some of the poorest and most conflict-ridden regions of the world. Upon reaching UK shores, a significant number of them seek asylum, hoping for safety and a better future. The UK authorities continue to face challenges in managing these crossings while ensuring the safety and security of all involved.