At least 8,565 people died on migration routes worldwide in 2023, according to IOM
According to data collected by IOM’s Missing Migrants Project, 2023, with at least 8565 deaths and disappearances, is the deadliest year since the project's inception in 2014. IOM highlights the urgent need for action to prevent further loss of life.
In a press release published today, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) highlights inter alia that:
- The 2023 death toll represents a tragic increase of 20% compared to 2022.
- Slightly more than half of the deaths were a result of drowning, with 9% caused by vehicle accidents, and 7% by violence.
- The Mediterranean crossing continues to be the deadliest route for migrants on record, with at least 3,129 deaths and disappearances.
- Unprecedented numbers of migrant deaths were recorded across Africa (1,866) and Asia (2,138). In Africa, most of these deaths occurred in the Sahara Desert and the sea route to the Canary Islands. In Asia, hundreds of deaths of Afghan and Rohingya refugees fleeing their countries of origin were recorded last year.
In 2024, ten years since the establishment of the Missing Migrants Project, the project has documented more than 63,000 cases worldwide. The true figure, however, is estimated to be much higher due to challenges in data collection.
For further information, please read the press release from IOM.