What You Need to Know
In 2025, more than 3,000 migrants died while trying to reach Spain, according to a report by a Spanish NGO. The majority of these fatalities occurred on the perilous Atlantic migration route between Africa and the Canary Islands, marking a significant humanitarian crisis. Official figures indicate a 40.4% decrease in irregular migrant arrivals compared to the previous year.
Africa. More than 3,000 migrants died in 2025 while attempting to reach Spain, according to a report published by a Spanish non-governmental organization.
The organization “Caminando Fronteras,” which advocates for migrants’ rights, reported that the majority of the recorded deaths, totaling 3,090 cases as of December 15, occurred on the migration route in the Atlantic between Africa and the Canary Islands, which is considered one of the most dangerous migration paths in the world.
Official figures indicate a 40.4% decrease in the number of irregular migrants who arrived in Spain between January 1 and December 15 compared to the same period last year (35,935 in 2025 versus 60,311 in 2024).
In 2024, a total of 10,457 migrants died or went missing while trying to reach Spain, marking the highest number of fatalities recorded by the Spanish organization since it began tracking this data in 2007.
The organization noted the emergence of new migration routes to Spain from Guinea and Algeria, where the number of boats departing from Algeria towards the Balearic Islands has increased. This route, often taken by Algerians, has seen an influx of migrants from Somalia, Sudan, and South Sudan, with recorded deaths doubling compared to 2024, reaching 1,037 cases.
The issue of migration to Spain has been a pressing concern for years, particularly due to the dangerous routes taken by migrants. The Atlantic route, connecting Africa to the Canary Islands, is known for its high mortality rates. In recent years, organizations have reported increasing fatalities, prompting calls for better migration policies and humanitarian support.
In 2024, the number of migrants who died or went missing while attempting to reach Spain reached a record high, with 10,457 cases reported. This alarming trend underscores the need for comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of migration and improve safety for those seeking a better life.
