A recent report from Spanish migration rights group Caminando Fronteras has revealed a tragic toll on human lives, with more than 10,000 migrants drowning this year while attempting to reach Spain by sea. The average stands at 30 deaths daily, marking a 58% increase from last year. The perilous journey primarily takes place along the Atlantic route, a notorious path from West Africa to the Canary Islands, considered one of the world’s deadliest.
The organization’s data, compiled from migrant families and official rescue statistics, indicates that among the 10,457 recorded casualties as of December 15, there were 1,538 children and 421 women. April and May emerged as the months with the highest fatalities.
A marked rise in migrant departures from Mauritania in 2024 was noted, shifting the country as a key departure point to the Canary Islands. In response, Spain pledged financial aid of €210 million to Mauritania to combat human smuggling.
Spain’s interior ministry reported over 57,700 migrants successfully reached the country by boat by December 15, reflecting a 12% increase compared to last year, with the majority arriving via the Atlantic route.
