
In 2024, Spain has seen a significant influx of migrants and refugees, with 63,970 individuals arriving via irregular routes, marking an increase from the previous year’s figures. The majority of these arrivals, approximately 46,843 people, reached the Canary Islands, a key entry point to Europe, according to the country’s interior ministry.
The European Union’s border agency, Frontex, reported a contrasting trend in irregular crossings into Europe between January and November 2024, noting an overall decline of 40%. However, this figure masks a 19% increase in crossings along the perilous Atlantic route, primarily involving individuals from West African nations such as Mali, Senegal, and Morocco. This region has been deeply affected by prolonged conflicts, high unemployment rates, and the adverse impacts of climate change on agricultural communities, all of which compel many to undertake this dangerous journey in search of better opportunities.
The Atlantic migration route is recognized as one of the world’s most treacherous, with the risk of loss of life increasingly evident. Recently, a tragic incident claimed the lives of at least 69 individuals, including 25 Malians, when a vessel capsized while attempting to reach the Canary Islands from West Africa.
An alarming report published by the NGO Caminando Fronteras highlighted that at least 10,457 migrants have died or disappeared while trying to reach Spain by sea during the year 2024, reflecting a stark 50% rise from the previous year. This toll represents the highest number of fatalities recorded since the organization began its tracking in 2007. Factors contributing to this increase include the use of unseaworthy boats and confronting treacherous waters, coupled with insufficient resources for timely rescue operations.
Advocacy groups such as Walking Borders have raised concerns regarding the European governments’ approach to migration, which they argue tends to prioritize strict immigration control measures over the fundamental right to life. They emphasize the urgent need for humane policies that prioritize the safety and dignity of migrants.
As Spain continues to grapple with this complex humanitarian situation, the resilience and determination of those fleeing adversity serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing global migration trends and the pressing need for comprehensive policies that address the underlying causes prompting such dangerous journeys.
#WorldNews #PoliticsNews