Updated

The International Organization for Migration reported that more than 2,200 migrants died or went missing at sea in 2026, even as the overall number of sea crossings into Europe has declined sharply. The IOM attributed the rising death toll to increasingly dangerous routes and tactics used by migrants and smugglers to evade heightened enforcement. The findings highlight a persistent humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean and other migration corridors, where fewer attempted crossings have not translated into fewer fatalities. Officials say the data underscores the growing risks migrants face as European countries tighten border controls.