CANARY ISLANDS, Spain (AP) – Spain’s Canary Islands saw a record 46,843 migrants arrive by sea in 2024, a significant increase from 56,852 in 2023, according to data from the Spanish government and NGOs. The total number of irregular arrivals in Spain reached 63,970 in 2024, with the majority heading to the Canary Islands.
Despite a 40% overall decrease in irregular crossings into the European Union from January to November 2024, the Atlantic route to the Canary Islands saw a 19% increase. Migrants undertake this perilous journey primarily due to conflicts in the Sahel region, high unemployment, and climate change devastating farming communities in Mali, Senegal, and Morocco.
The Atlantic migration route, with its treacherous waters and overcrowded boats, is now considered the deadliest in the world. In a recent tragedy, at least 69 people, including 25 Malians, died after a boat capsized off the coast of Morocco.
NGO Caminando Fronteras reported that 10,457 migrants perished or went missing while attempting to reach Spain by sea in 2024, a 50% increase from the previous year and the highest number since the organization began tracking in 2007. Many fatalities are attributed to poorly constructed boats, hazardous conditions at sea, and insufficient rescue resources.
Migrant aid groups have criticized European governments for prioritizing immigration control over human lives, condemning the criminalization of migrants and lack of effective rescue operations. The situation calls for urgent action to address the root causes of migration and ensure the safety of those fleeing conflict and economic hardship.
