In a shocking revelation, preliminary calculations by Frontex, the EU’s border agency, have unveiled a staggering surge in irregular border crossings, reaching a chilling total of approximately 380,000 in 2023.
This alarming figure marks the highest level since the tumultuous year of 2016, signaling a harrowing 17% spike from the preceding year’s numbers, thus unveiling a relentless upward trajectory over the past three years.
The Mediterranean region emerged as the epicenter of this migratory storm, with the Central Mediterranean route spearheading the surge, accounting for a whopping two-fifths (41%) of all irregular crossings into the EU last year.
Following closely behind were the Western Balkans (26%) and the Eastern Mediterranean (16%), painting a distressing picture of unrelenting migration pressures.
Leading the charge among nationalities embarking on these perilous journeys were Syrians, constituting over 100,000 irregular crossings, closely trailed by Guineans and Afghans.
Together, these top three nationalities comprised over a third of all detections, underscoring the magnitude of the crisis gripping Europe’s borders.
Furthermore, disconcerting demographic trends emerged from the statistical data, revealing that women and children accounted for a significant portion of last year’s irregular crossings, comprising 10% each of the total figure.
In response to the escalating crisis, Frontex has mobilized a formidable force of 2,500 EU border guard officers and personnel, spearheading joint operations at Europe’s borders.
Their mission: to bolster member states and third countries in grappling with migratory flows and to staunchly combat cross-border crime, ranging from migrant smuggling to human trafficking and terrorism.
Key Insights:
- Highest increases on the Western African, Eastern Mediterranean and Central Mediterranean routes.
- The Central Mediterranean route experienced a 50% increase in irregular border crossings compared to 2022, totalling around 158 000.
- The Eastern Mediterranean route continued its post-pandemic upward trend with around 60 000 detections.
- The Western African route marked its highest annual figure to date, with over 40 000 incidents.
- Syrians, Guineans, and Afghans were the most prevalent nationalities, comprising 37% of all irregular border crossings.
- A noticeable increase in African migrants, particularly from West Africa, who now represent nearly half (47%) of all detected migrants.
- The number of unaccompanied minors rose by 28% from the previous year, totalling over 20 000 in 2023.
- The Channel saw over 62 000 attempts and successful crossings, a decrease of 12% from the previous year.
Note: The figures reported are preliminary and refer to the number of detections of irregular border crossings at the EU’s external borders.
It is important to note that the same individual may be counted multiple times if they attempt to cross the border at different locations.
Source: Frontex
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