A record number of at least 8,938 people died on migration routes worldwide in 2024, the UN announced on Friday, noting that the actual toll is "likely much higher" as many deaths go unrecorded.
"The rising number of migrant deaths globally is a tragedy that is unacceptable and preventable," remarked Ugochi Daniels, Deputy Director General of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), in a statement.
Data collected by the UN agency indicates that at least 8,938 people died on migration routes worldwide in 2024, "making it the deadliest year on record." This marks the fifth consecutive year of rising migrant deaths, according to the IOM.
"The increase in deaths across many regions demonstrates why we need an international and holistic response to prevent further tragic loss of life," stated Daniels.
In 2024, the most deaths were recorded in Asia (2,778), Africa (2,242), and Europe (233), according to the IOM.
The 2,452 documented deaths in the Mediterranean Sea do not set a record; however, the IOM emphasises that this “high number underscores the need for adequate search and rescue systems and safe and regular migration routes.”
Final data for the Americas is not yet available, but current figures suggest at least 1,233 deaths, including record numbers of 341 in the Caribbean and 174 in the Darien jungle between Panama and Colombia.
Actual number 'likely much higher'
The IOM believes "the actual number of migrant deaths and disappearances is likely much higher, as many deaths are not documented due to a lack of official records."
Additionally, the identity and origin of the majority of deceased or missing migrants remain unknown.
“The rise in deaths is tragic enough, but the fact that thousands remain unidentified each year is even more heartbreaking,” commented Julia Black, who coordinates the IOM’s Missing Migrants Project.
“Beyond the despair and unresolved questions faced by families who have lost a loved one, the lack of comprehensive data on the risks migrants face hinders life-saving responses,” she added.
