The United Nations has declared 2023 as the deadliest year for migrants since 2014, with at least 8,565 people losing their lives on migration routes worldwide. This staggering figure marks a tragic 20% increase compared to 2022, underscoring the urgent need for action to prevent further loss of life, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The IOM’s Missing Migrants project, which documents deaths and disappearances of migrants globally, revealed the alarming statistics, prompting calls for greater collective action to ensure safe migration for all. Ugochi Daniels, Deputy Director General of IOM, emphasized the necessity of renewed efforts to prevent migrants from risking their lives in search of better opportunities.
The lack of safe and regulated pathways compels thousands of migrants to embark on perilous migration routes, resulting in devastating consequences. The Mediterranean Sea route from North Africa to Europe remains the most hazardous, with at least 3,129 deaths recorded in 2023, the highest toll since 2017.
Across Africa and Asia, significant numbers of migrant deaths were reported, with many occurring in the Sahara Desert and the sea route to Spain’s Canary Islands in Africa, and among Rohingya and Afghan refugees in Asia.
Drowning accounted for over half of the total migrant deaths in 2023, while vehicle accidents and violence contributed to 9% and 7% of the fatalities, respectively.
Despite the grim realities of migrant deaths, the tragic trend continues in 2024, with 512 migrants already losing their lives this year. The sobering statistics highlight the ongoing challenges and underscore the imperative for comprehensive action to ensure the safety and well-being of migrants worldwide.