GENEVA - Last year marked a distressing milestone in the global migration crisis, as the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported the highest number of migrant deaths on both land and sea routes since its inception a decade ago. With at least 8,565 fatalities recorded, this grim figure underscores the perilous journey undertaken by countless individuals seeking refuge or better opportunities.

The Mediterranean Sea route saw a stark escalation in deaths, reaching 3,129 compared to 2,411 in the previous year. Despite this alarming increase, it remains below the devastating peak of 5,136 deaths recorded in 2016 during the height of conflicts in Syria, Afghanistan, and other regions. Most tragically, the majority of deaths—approximately 3,700—resulted from drownings, highlighting the inherent dangers faced by migrants attempting perilous sea crossings. Additionally, many migrants vanished while attempting these crossings, their fate presumed but bodies never recovered. The IOM acknowledges that its figures likely underestimate the true toll, citing improvements in data collection methods as a contributing factor.

Ugochi Daniels, Deputy Director General of the IOM, emphasized the profound human tragedy inherent in each death, which reverberates through families and communities for years to come. This sobering reality underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the root causes of migration and enhance safety measures for those embarking on these journeys.

Furthermore, the Asia region witnessed a significant uptick in migrant deaths, with 2,138 fatalities reported last year—an increase of 68 from the previous year. This rise was primarily attributed to heightened mortality rates among Afghan migrants fleeing to neighboring countries like Iran, as well as among Rohingya refugees undertaking perilous maritime routes.

Meanwhile, Africa also experienced a record number of migrant deaths in 2023, totaling 1,866. The majority of these fatalities occurred in treacherous environments such as the Sahara Desert and along sea routes leading to the Canary Islands. However, challenges persist in accurately capturing data, particularly in remote areas like the hazardous Darien Gap between Colombia and Panama, where many migrants traverse en route to North America.

In response to the escalating crisis, the IOM initiated the Missing Migrants project in 2014, following a surge in deaths in the Mediterranean and an influx of migrants on the Italian island of Lampedusa. This ongoing endeavor aims to document and raise awareness of migrant fatalities, shedding light on the human cost of migration and advocating for comprehensive solutions to mitigate these tragedies. As the world grapples with the complexities of migration, it is imperative to prioritize the protection and well-being of migrants, ensuring that their fundamental rights and dignity are upheld throughout their journeys.