Nearly 8 000 migrants dead at sea

by ADANE BIKILA
ADDIS ABABA, (CAJ News)– ABOUT 8 000 migrants were reported dead or missing worldwide in 2025.

This brings the total since 2014 to more than 82 000, according to new data released today by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

At least around 340 000 family members are estimated to have been directly affected.

The data shows migration routes are shifting rather than easing, with risks remaining high along increasingly dangerous journeys, despite declines in arrivals in some regions.

The findings draw on IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) Global Overview of Migration Routes and new analysis from the Missing Migrants Project (MMP).

“Routes are shifting in response to conflict, climate pressures and policy changes, but the risks are still very real,” Amy Pope, IOM Director General, said.

“Behind these numbers are people taking dangerous journeys and families left waiting for news that may never come. Data is critical to understanding these routes and designing interventions that can reduce risks, save lives and promote safer migration pathways.”

The 2025 Global Overview of Migration Routes shows that lower arrival figures in some regions do not reflect reduced migration pressure.

In the Horn of Africa, movements towards Saudi Arabia decreased slightly from 2024 but remained above 2023 levels.

Flows from East Africa towards Southern Africa increased late in the year due to shifting labour demands in southern Ethiopia.

Along the West African Atlantic route, arrivals to the Canary Islands dropped significantly after strengthened border cooperation.

Journeys have become longer, riskier and more geographically dispersed.

– CAJ News