Irregular migration into the European Union (EU) has decreased significantly in 2024, with the number of border crossings reaching a three-year low. According to Frontex, the EU’s border agency, preliminary figures show just over 239,000 irregular border crossings, a 38% decline compared to 2023.

Decline in Key Routes, Increase in Eastern Europe

While migration through the central Mediterranean dropped by 59% and the Western Balkans route saw a decrease of 78%, irregular crossings through eastern European borders, particularly those with Russia and Belarus, nearly tripled. The Canary Islands also witnessed an 18% increase in irregular arrivals.

Experts suggest the decline in Mediterranean arrivals can be attributed to the EU’s cooperation with Tunisia and Libya to curb boat crossings. However, the collaboration has raised concerns due to allegations of human rights violations by the Libyan coastguard. Meanwhile, the surge in arrivals along eastern European routes, particularly through Belarus and Russia, has added new challenges for EU authorities. Poland, for example, has long accused Russia of facilitating migration to destabilize Europe.

Despite the drop in figures, Frontex cautions that migration-related issues remain, including the continued threat of dangerous border crossings and illegal smuggling networks. Over 2,300 people have gone missing or died attempting to cross the Mediterranean in 2024, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).