The number of irregular border crossings at the EU’s external border in 2023 reached approximately 380.000, driven by a rise in arrivals via the Mediterranean region, with many cargo vessels called to the rescue.
A consistent upward trend
According to Frontex, this marks the highest level since 2016 and constitutes a 17% increase from the figures in 2022, indicating a consistent upward trend over the past three years. Furthermore, the Central Mediterranean was the most active migratory route into the EU, accounting for two out of every five irregular crossings (41%) in 2023, followed by the Western Balkans (26%) and Eastern Mediterranean (16%).
Cargo vessels to the rescue
As explained, these rising numbers have an impact on cargo vessels transiting the area, as they are often involved in rescue operations. For instance, according to the Hellenic Coast Guard, in the past few days, four commercial vessels aided in the rescue of 184 individuals. In particular, they were salvaged by Marshall-Islands-flagged crude oil tanker Yiannis P (71 people), Japanese-flagged car carrier ship Rhea Leader (37 people), Panama-flagged container ship Lider Halil (34 people), and Danish-flagged container vessel Maersk Brownsville (42 people).
Key insights from Frontex:
- 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.
The numbers presented today show the evolving challenges we face in managing the EU’s external borders. We remain committed to ensuring the security and integrity of the EU’s borders. It’s equally crucial to address the humanitarian aspects of migration. These figures represent not just statistics but real people.
… said Frontex Executive Director Hans Leijtens.
