Mediterranean migrant deaths rise this year

Migrant boats in the mediterranean. DW News

Arrivals to Europe by sea have fallen sharply this year, but deaths and disappearances along Mediterranean migration routes have increased, according to new data from the UN’s International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Nearly 60,000 migrants and refugees have reached Europe by sea so far in 2026, a 39 per cent decline from the same period last year. But at least 2,292 people have died or gone missing attempting the journey, up from 1,999 by the same time last year.

Arrivals in Italy from the Central Mediterranean route fell 55 per cent from 48,231 to 21,393, while deaths rose from 844 to 996. 

Increasingly desperate

On the Eastern Mediterranean route, arrivals in Greece fell by about 5,000, while deaths increased by 133. Spain also recorded fewer arrivals but maintained a similar number of deaths.

IOM Director General Amy Pope said the figures show migrants are taking increasingly dangerous journeys and called for greater international cooperation, including expanded safe and regular pathways.

The figures cover verified incidents through 15 September. IOM warned the true death toll is likely higher. – UN News