The European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) reported today a 38% decrease in irregular border crossings into the European Union in 2024, reaching the lowest level since 2021, while noting a 14% increase in the Eastern Mediterranean route.
More than 239,000 irregular crossings were detected last year, with the overall decrease primarily attributed to a 59% drop in Central Mediterranean arrivals and a 78% reduction along the Western Balkan route, Frontex said in preliminary data released today.
The Eastern Mediterranean route saw 69,400 detections, up 14%, driven by new corridors from eastern Libya, with migrants mainly from Syria, Afghanistan, and Egypt.
The Canary Islands recorded 47,000 arrivals, an 18% increase and the highest figure since Frontex began data collection in 2009, while attempted Channel crossings to the United Kingdom rose by 9%.
“While 2024 showed a significant decrease in irregular border crossings, it also highlighted new risks and changing dynamics”, Frontex Executive Director Hans Leijtens said.
Demographic data showed women comprised just over 10% of detected migrants, with 62% entering through the Eastern Mediterranean route. The proportion of minors increased to 16% from 13% in 2023.
The International Organisation for Migration estimates 2,300 people lost their lives at sea in 2024, Frontex said, highlighting increased violence from smugglers in the Western Balkans and growing instability in regions such as the Sahel as ongoing challenges.
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